E-inclusion or digital divide: an integrated model of digital inequality

To address the dearth of integrative theories on the digital divide problem, this study proposes an integrative model including both measurements and causes of the digital divide. In order to test the applicability of this model, the authors applied secondary analysis to a 2014 dataset comprised of survey responses from 398 Chinese migrant workers. The results showed how the integrative model can be applied as a potential analytical framework to understand the digital divide. The model suggests that Chinese migrant worker partially accept ICT. However, due to their lack of motivational, intellectual, and social access they remain minimally e-included. Enhanced industrial and public resources may be required to address the challenge of the digital divide. Socio-economic disparity remains the main force that inhibits their e-inclusion and acceptance of ICT.