Technology for Educational Purposes Among Low-Income Latino Children Living in a Mobile Park in Silicon Valley: A Case Study Before and During COVID-19

Abstract

Our case study explored the role of technology in education among low-income Latino residents living in a mobile park in Silicon Valley. Through surveys and in-person interviews with parents and children, we report qualitative data on home Internet access and availability of technological devices utilized for school-related purposes. The results of this study indicated that despite having a baseline level of access to technology as well as an understanding of its importance in the context of a child’s education, our study population currently faces significant barriers to having adequate access to technology at home due to socioeconomic barriers. The digital divide in educational technology was magnified when schools were abruptly closed in favor of online instruction for all children due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings strongly support the recommendation that more attention and systematic improvement are required in order to eliminate disparities and improve student learning and parental involvement with schooling for marginalized communities.