The numbers reported in this factsheet are based on the Joint Center's 1998 and 1999 National Opinion Polls. The 1998 responses are from telephone interviews with 1,606 adults, conducted in September 1998. The sample included a national general population sample of 850 and a national sample of 850 African Americans. The 1999 responses are based on telephone interviews with 1,678 adults, a national general population sample of 850 and a national sample of 900 African Americans. For both surveys, the statistical margin of error is +/- 3.5 percentage points. The 1998 numbers reported here vary somewhat from those reported by the Department of Commerce in the recently released report, Falling Through the Net, but the patterns of usage are the same. Differences in reported numbers are most likely related to differences in question wording, racial categories used (for example, the Commerce report excludes Hispanics from racial totals), and margins of error.

Available in PDF Format Only.

To download this publication, click the file icon below.
 

During the last decade, technology has changed significantly and the diffusion of various forms of technology throughout the United States has been widespread, but uneven. Measuring the Divide examines the "digital divide" and several of the major factors that affect Internet use across and within racial groups, especially among African Americans. It also looks at how those who do have Internet connections use the Internet, as a way of informing how efforts might be made to make the Internet more engaging (as well as more accessible) to African Americans. Finally, it concludes with a discussion of broadband and the implications of its potential diffusion, particularly for health care, minority businesses, and African American communities. An appendix presents information on the characteristics of the African American population that affect Internet use in ten states and the District of Columbia.

Available in PDF Format  Only.

Download by clicking the file icon below.

Date Published: March 2006