43. Expanding internet service is not sufficient to close the digital divide. Which additional action would significantly increase the impact of providing additional broadband?
Answer: C
Improved access to electricity would significantly increase the impact of providing additional broadband.
Access to reliable electricity is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of expanded internet services. Without a stable power supply, even the best broadband infrastructure cannot function optimally, preventing users from fully accessing the internet.
A) Improved regulatory structure
While a better regulatory framework can facilitate the deployment of broadband services, it does not directly address underlying issues such as power availability. Regulatory improvements may help in the long term, but they do not immediately enhance the practical use of internet services in areas lacking electricity.
B) Increased foreign direct investment
Increased foreign direct investment could potentially enhance infrastructure and services, but without addressing basic needs like electricity, the investment may not yield significant improvements in internet usage. Therefore, while beneficial, this option does not directly tackle the issue at hand.
C) Improved access to electricity
Improving access to electricity is essential as it enables users to power devices that connect to the internet. Without electricity, even with an expanded broadband network, individuals cannot utilize these services effectively, making this the most impactful action to close the digital divide.
D) Increased number of computing devices
While increasing the number of computing devices is important for internet access, these devices require electricity to function. Simply having more devices will not bridge the digital divide if users do not have reliable power sources to operate them.
Conclusion
Improving access to electricity directly addresses a fundamental barrier that affects the usability of broadband services. While other options may contribute to closing the digital divide, they are insufficient without ensuring that users have the necessary power to utilize internet services effectively. Thus, improved access to electricity stands out as the most significant additional action to enhance the impact of expanded broadband access.