Evidence collection for this project began with an in-depth study of websites belonging to San Jose State University and the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library. These searches revealed numerous services to students with limited computer access and experience, particularly through the Student Computing Center (SCC) and Student Technology Training Center (STTC). The SCC addresses the study's first criteria by loaning computing technology and equipment to SJSU members free of charge, while the STTC addresses the second criteria by offering individualized software support and collaborating with faculty to teach basic digital research skills.

 

The online search further uncovered data about the demographics of SJSU's student body in terms of ethnic minority status and of students who were the first in their families to attend four-year university.

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Next, a review of scholarly literature revealed that students whose parents did not attend college and members of racial minority groups were among the most negatively affected by the digital divide. Evidence further demonstrated the powerful effect of free computer access and computer literacy training on students at risk for technological illiteracy.

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Finally, a visit to King Library confirmed the presence of both the Student Computing Center and the Student Technology Training Center on the Library's fourth floor. Details of each program are described in the text boxes on the right.