Final answer:
The term 'digital divide' refers to the disparity in access to computers and the internet among different social groups, leading to a 'knowledge gap.' The divide persists even as technology becomes more affordable, affecting the quality and empowerment potential of internet access.
Step-by-step explanation:
The extreme difference among different social groups in terms of their access to computers and the internet is called the digital divide. This term was popularized in 1996 by then Vice President Al Gore and signifies the gap between those who have ready access to computers and the internet, and those who do not. This divide often corresponds to disparities in race, class, and geographic location, leading to a subsequent issue known as the knowledge gap.
Children in peripheral nations tend to have less daily access to technology compared to children in core nations, illustrating the global scale of the digital divide. Due to the affordability of technology improving, it might appear that the divide is closing. However, research shows that the use of technology and internet access still varies significantly among different social groups within the United States.
The digital divide not only signifies a lack of access but can also reflect the quality of access—for instance, those who may only connect to the internet through smartphones can face limitations, such as difficulty in performing tasks like updating a resume or filling out job applications, compared to those with broadband and a computer at home. As a result, the digital divide can impede not only access to information but also the ability to use technology for empowerment in a technological society.