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Alan VanBiervliet, PhD and Jan Richter, EdD. Health Behavior Health Communication, COPH, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham, Mail Slot 820, Little Rock, AR 72211, 5015266699, vanb@uams.edu
DeltaCommunity.net (DC.net) is based on the premises that Internet access is an important part of society, it should be viewed as a public service rather than a privilege, and it must be made available to all citizens regardless of income or place of residence. Internet use has become an essential component for health, education, commerce, and community development. The Internet has become an enabling technology for many public health initiatives. A digital divide based on income and geographic location has developed and grows as technology evolves. New approaches are necessary to ensure that all persons benefit from the information resources. Public health professionals can play important roles in community Internet access. DC.net includes establishing a sustainable grassroots structure for broadband Internet service, computer and Internet access, computer training, and community designed content. Newly available wide area or community wireless technologies are one of the tools used in the DC.net program. The DC.net uses community planning and partnerships to design and implement the program. A regional Internet cooperative similar to a rural water cooperative has been established to develop and maintain the system. A demonstration wireless community network has been established in Marvell, Arkansas. Marvell is a small farming community in one of the poorest regions in the country. Prior to DC.net, Marvel was underserved by Internet Service providers and most residents did not have Internet access. The success of the DC.net is largely dependent on the extent to which local people have come to “own” the DC.net operating in their community.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Internet, Community-Based Partnership
Related Web page: under development
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.