Personal Empowerment in the Study of Home Internet Use by Low-Income Families

The Meaning of Computers to a Group of Men Who Are Homeless

“…Gage and Polatajko (1994) discuss the relationship between self-efficacy, self-esteem, and occupational performance. Bier et al (1997) described a sense of empowerment gained in low-income families who were introduced to computers and the Internet for the first time. The empowerment literature views the importance of self-efficacy and its relationship to an internal locus of control, a sense of mastery and increased ability to act as part of the empowerment process (Gutierrez, 1990).…”

“…In a study that examined the impact of computer and Internet use with lowincome families, participants reported that they no longer saw themselves as inferior to those they converse with on the Internet who might have more education, money, or social standing (Bier et al, 1997). The chronically homeless population can be disconnected from the values of society, so this feeling of a way to be connected to larger society is important for this population.…”

“…When access to technology and training in computers was provided, a study found that underserved populations could successfully use the technology to address their specific concerns (Bier, Gallo, Nucklos, Sherblom, & Pennick, 1997). Research suggests that health promotion Web-based applications can improve health knowledge, attitudes, emotional well-being, and reduce the amount of unnecessary health care (Eng et al, 1998).…”

Influences Interpreting a Technology Component to Financial Education for Grades K-4: Another Dimension of the Digital Divide

“…Bier et al (1997) report that Internet access provides opportunity for lower-class families' access of informational and communications resources; however, barriers to access represent major hurdles toward this empowerment. These barriers occur along cultural lines.…”

“…Novak and Hoffman (1998) find significant differences in African Americans' and Whites' home computer ownership, short term personal computer purchase plans, and short term home Internet use. Wiburg (2003) Bier et al, 1997;Fishman et al 2001) suggest that knowledge and experience increase user interest.…”