BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE: LEVERAGING TECHNOLOGY FOR INCLUSIVE EDUCATION IN MARGINALIZED COMMUNITIES
B. Costache1, V.A. Enachescu2
The digital divide remains a significant barrier to achieving inclusive education, particularly in marginalized communities where access to technology and digital literacy is limited. This paper explores strategies for leveraging technology to create equitable learning environments, focusing on innovative approaches to bridge the gap in resource-constrained settings. By examining case studies and data from schools in underserved regions, the study highlights the critical role of leadership, policy-making, and community collaboration in overcoming digital inequity.
Using a mixed-methods approach, the research analyzes quantitative data from 125 students and 50 educators across marginalized communities, alongside qualitative interviews with 12 educational leaders. Findings reveal that tailored interventions—such as mobile learning programs, community-driven digital hubs, and affordable technology initiatives—improve both access to education and learning outcomes. Leadership proved essential in driving these efforts, fostering partnerships with NGOs and private stakeholders, and creating sustainable frameworks for technology deployment.
Key findings of the research include:
- The pivotal role of leadership in establishing inclusive technology policies and integrating culturally relevant digital tools to address the unique needs of marginalized learners;
- A positive correlation between technology integration and improved student participation, particularly in regions with limited access to traditional educational resources;
- The necessity of professional development programs to equip educators with the skills needed to effectively implement and adapt EdTech solutions;
- The transformative impact of community-driven initiatives, such as digital hubs and mobile learning platforms, in reducing barriers to education.
The study emphasizes the importance of integrating culturally relevant content and user-friendly tools to address the unique needs of diverse learners and underscores the critical need for visionary leadership and strategic collaboration to harness technology as a tool for social equity and educational transformation. Additionally, it outlines best practices for training educators and empowering them to adopt technology effectively, ensuring inclusivity and engagement. By leveraging technology strategically, this paper demonstrates how marginalized communities can transition from being digitally excluded to empowered, creating opportunities for equitable education and long-term socioeconomic impact.
Keywords: Management, digital divide, inclusive education, marginalized communities, educational technology, leadership, equity in education, digital literacy, community collaboration, technology in education.