Technology, the 21st Century Workforce, and the Construct of Social Justice

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Author(s): Marianne Robin Russo (Florida Atlantic University, USA)and Valerie C. Bryan (Florida Atlantic University, USA)
Copyright: 2013
Pages: 20
Source title: Handbook of Research on Technologies for Improving the 21st Century Workforce: Tools for Lifelong Learning
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Viktor Wang (Florida Atlantic University, USA)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-4666-2181-7.ch005

Keywords: Adult Learning / Education / Educational Technologies / Information Science Reference

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Abstract

Although there is current research describing ICT use in the 21st century as it relates to workforce needs, there are factors to examine regarding the adult learner that can help offset barriers to ICT involvement. And, factors that may determine success in the cyber community could be due to age, gender, ethnic, and racial disparities regarding ICT use and its ultimate impact on occupational deprivation. Technology is advancing at a geometric pace, and the adult learner must traverse this digital divide. Understanding this overlap, the nature and frequency of technology use by the adult learner will help more effectively: a) blur the lines of social constructs in an attempt to mitigate class hegemony; b) mitigate future occupational problems when employment and economic needs depend on ICT knowledge; c) understand and avoid barriers that create digital disparity so group membership in the cyber community is fostered and maintained; and, d) gain more of a political voice. The focus of this chapter is to assess how traditionally disadvantaged groups currently navigate technology, and the changes that must take place to lessen this digital divide. If barriers to ICT can be determined, this will have subsequent implications on the workforce potential within these disenfranchised groups. This chapter proposes a larger implication, one of a link between ICT use and social justice for specific groups. It is imperative that these groups widen their horizons with the use of technology, not just to improve economic status, but to understand that technology and government structures are inextricably tied, having an ultimate effect on democracy.

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Technology, the 21st Century Workforce, and the Construct of Social Justice

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