The recent explosion in information technology has sparked controversy over what has been termed the “digital divide”—the alleged gap between those who have access to personal computers and the Internet and those who do not. While most people agree that some disparity exists between the haves and the have-nots, the debate lies in whether technology should be provided free of charge to poorer neighborhoods and schools.

Many people argue that the digital divide unfairly equips wealthy citizens and their children with more information and opportunities than those with lower incomes. According to Maureen Brown Yoder, associate professor of telecommunications, multimedia, and media literacy courses, “Until we enjoy universal access to technology, the Internet, and ideas on how to use them responsibly and productively, many people will wield an unfair advantage in their learning environment, in the job market...