Final answer:
Internet access enables grade 11 ABM students to explore a wealth of online educational resources, enhancing digital literacy and future job market opportunities. However, disparities in the digital divide and potential variations in comprehension between digital and print reading warrant a balanced approach in educational resource provision.
Step-by-step explanation:
Providing internet access to grade 11 ABM (Accountancy, Business, and Management) students offers several advantages over traditional hardcopy lesson materials. Internet access opens doors to a wide array of educational resources, including web-based sample quizzes, interactive tutorials, and open access platforms with curriculum-related materials.
This technology-driven approach promotes digital literacy and prepares students for a technology-based job market. However, there are potential downsides, such as the digital divide where access to technology varies significantly by race, class, and geography, leading to an uneven educational playing field.
While the cost of technology has decreased over time, making it more accessible for a broader audience, disparities in e-readiness persist, which inhibits some students from utilizing online resources effectively. Additionally, there's evidence suggesting that students may comprehend and retain information better when reading print materials. As a result, educators and policymakers should consider these factors when evaluating the impacts of internet access in educational settings.