Odds ratios of being digitally excluded by various characteristics in January to March 2020, using data from the Labour Force Survey with geographical coverage of the UK.

This study challenges the current ‘utopian’ discourse in digital inclusion rhetoric by providing insights into the complexity of digital inclusion initiative provision as a multilevel phenomenon, against a backdrop of digitalisation and digital-by-default policy. The aim of this study is to investigate digital inclusion initiative provision in the context of UK rural communities. Underpinned by the philosophy of critical realism, the study employs an exploratory qualitative case study that provides a critical discussion of digital inclusion initiative provision and a granular analysis of the dynamics, processes, experiences, and behaviours of those involved in the phenomenon. More specifically the study explores digital inclusion initiative provision from a multilevel perspective, from digital inclusion stakeholders that operate nationally across the UK; intermediaries delivering digital inclusion training and support in three specific rural regions of the UK with populations at increased risk of digital exclusion; and individuals who have received digital inclusion support within those three specific rural locations. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews, focus groups, observations, complemented by a brief document review. Activity Theory was utilised as an analytical framework to provide guidance from data collection through to empirical data analysis to help investigate digital inclusion initiative provision as a multilevel phenomenon. Key findings reveal digital inclusion initiative provision is a complicated process that is fraught with challenges and contradictions, that hamper the realisation of the digital inclusion agenda. Digital inclusion training and support is provided to individuals from ‘all walks of life’, not just the digitally excluded, and not everyone has beneficial outcomes. Importantly, the study reveals the bridging role of human intermediation, and the need for rural communities to be considered in UK government digital policy. Contributions of this study include new insights into the understanding digital inclusion initiative provision and the inherent challenges in that process, the usefulness of Activity Theory to help unravel the complexity of digital inclusion initiatives as a multilevel phenomenon; and recommendations for change in the provision of digital inclusion initiatives that have implications for policy and practice.

Barnet, Brent, Kensington and Chelsea, Southwark and Westminster have come together with LOTI and the GLA to map digital exclusion across London.

• To use data to enable design and target digital inclusions service
• To understand the specific needs of different demographic groups and where those needs are clustered
• To use collaboration to enhance our insight and pool our resources for the benefit of all digital inclusion practitioners in London

The project has created a number of deliverables:

• London Digital Exclusion Map
• Story Map: Digital exclusion amongst older people
• London Digital Exclusion Personas
• Mapping Digital Exclusion in London: Toolkit

A new story map has been developed to help organisations identify areas where services to help older people access digital services might be most needed.

https://cdn.datapress.cloud/london/img/dataset/08fa1d51-b389-498e-b522-e31e1fa109d3/2025-06-21T09%3A57%3A32/unnamed.png" alt="unnamed.png" />

For organisations that have their own GIS (Geographic Information System), we've also shared the cleaned data used in the Story Map.

With thanks to Helen at MapItOut.

BackgroundThe covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the use of digital tools within health and social care services. However, for a range of different reasons, across the UK there continue to be people who are digitally excluded. People living with a disability have been identified as being more likely to be digitally excluded and many of these people, including people with severe mental illness (SMI) already experience health inequalities. Therefore, understanding the perceived impact digital exclusion has on health and potential facilitators of increased inclusion is an important area for research. This study had two aims: 1. To understand experiences of digital exclusion and the impact on health in people with SMI. 2. To explore the influences and mechanisms which would increase engagement with digital health tools.MethodsThis was an observational qualitative study, conducting focus groups (with the option of a 1:1 interview for those uncomfortable in groups) with nine people with severe mental illness.ResultsParticipant’s responses were themed in to four key areas in relation to digital exclusion and impact on health: 1. Reduced social connectedness, 2. The impact on wider determinants of health 3. Negative perception of self, 4. Disempowerment. Key facilitators for increased engagement with digital tools included, local digital skills support with mental health lived experience involvement in the delivery, digitally engaged social referents, access to digital tools and data, personalised and straightforward digital tools. In addition, increasing health and social care staff’s awareness of digital exclusion was also viewed as important in promoting inclusion.ConclusionThe research findings suggest that digital inclusion should be viewed as a wider determinant of health. Many of the identified consequences of exclusion are particularly important in relation to mental health and mental health recovery. This research suggests that identifying and addressing digital exclusion should be viewed as a priority for mental health services.

In today’s interconnected world, internet access is often considered critical for accessing work. However, reliance on the internet also poses challenges for some disabled people, who may be vulnerable to digital exclusion. This innovative project delivered by an interprofessional team of social scientists, voluntary sector organisations, vocational rehabilitation practitioners, disability researchers, disabled people, and digital engagement specialists examined digital inclusion of disabled adults in voluntary work.

The project aimed to: (1) advance understanding of how digital inclusion of disabled individuals fosters social inclusion in online and offline voluntary work; and (2) identify effective principles to boost participation, inclusivity, and leverage the potential of digital technologies in the voluntary sector organisations.

A mixed-methods approach is adopted for a more comprehensive understanding of the research problem. This included qualitative interviews and analysis that will provide deeper understanding and explanations for these patterns through analysis of the lived experiences of disabled adults and survey data analysis.

The key findings included: • Link Between Digital Inclusion and Volunteering: For disabled adults, being included in online and offline volunteering depends on how well they can access and use digital technology in general. The same devices, technologies, social support, and skills used in employment and other areas of life are often applied to volunteering. Because disabled adults often have less access to devices and the internet and use them less than non-disabled adults, they are more likely to miss out on volunteering opportunities that require it. • Digital Access and Divide: Most disabled adults in the UK are connected digitally, but the digital divide persists. Disabled adults face greater digital challenges and exclusion compared to non-disabled adults, with the disability digital gap remaining largely unchanged since 2018. • Digital exclusion: Nearly one million disabled adults don’t have Internet at home, 1.4 million don’t use the Internet, and about two million don’t own a smartphone or computer. • Frequency of Use and Online Exclusion: Disabled adults use the Internet less often than non-disabled adults and they are more likely to be left out of common online activities like browsing, emailing, social media, online banking, and streaming videos. • Double Disadvantage and Additional Challenges: Disabled people often come from groups that with already more limited access to the Internet and devices, such as older adults, those with low incomes, benefit recipients, renters from local authorities, people with less education and those living alone. On top of these existing barriers, being disabled means facing even more difficulties in accessing and using digital technology. • Individual Nature of Disability Experience with Digital Tools: Disabled adults’ experiences with digital tools are highly individual, shaped by factors such as impairment type, severity, presence of multiple impairments, and their social context. • Double-Edged Sword of Digital Technology and Online Volunteering: Digital technology is crucial for inclusion but can also be source of exclusion for those struggling with technology. Disabled adults are more inclined to engage in online volunteering, because of its accessibility. However, online volunteering also presents challenges that may deter some disabled volunteers. Despite some digital barriers, disabled adults show higher interest in online volunteering compared to non-disabled adults. • Importance of Internet Access for Engaging in Volunteering: Internet access and usage are crucial for enabling disabled individuals to engage in volunteering, including both online and in-person opportunities. Those who use the Internet more frequently are more likely to volunteer, even after considering their socioeconomic background. • Internet Access, Use, Devices and Volunteering Hours and Frequency: For disabled individuals, owning devices does not affect the number of volunteer hours. More frequent Internet use is linked to volunteering more hours, with exception of frequent Internet users (daily or weekly) who volunteer fewer hours. Device ownership and Internet use do not impact the frequency of volunteering. • Digital Barriers and Enablers of Volunteering: o Technology over-reliance: Over-reliance on technology can complicate volunteer journeys, especially when IT systems or support is unavailable or inadequate. o Technological assumptions: Organisations often assume people understand how to use technology and devices and may not recognise the need for support or training. o Variation in suitability of assistive devices: The effectiveness of assistive devices can facilitate or hinder participation, depending on their suitability and the level of support provided. Malfunctioning or unsuitable assistive devices can exacerbate challenges for disabled individuals. Disabled adults can experience a mismatched between requirements and devices available or provided that can lead to exclusion form volunteering opportunities. o Reliance of support networks: To be effective, use of assistive devices draws on the skills and experience of informal support networks. Organisations should remain attuned to prioritising supporting people rather than supporting technology. o Organisational culture: Organisations should encourage a culture of listening and providing empathetic support to address the specific needs of disabled volunteers and reduce digital barriers to volunteering. Support structures should be inclusive and allow volunteers to discuss their needs, ensuring parity with paid staff support. • Volunteering and Employment: Our findings suggest that, rather than volunteering serving as a direct path to paid work, employment helps disabled individuals overcome digital barriers to volunteering. The confidence, skills and resources acquired through paid employment, as well as the social capital that often comes from being part of being a part of more diverse networks that includes work colleagues as well as more personal relationships, means that those in employment might be better able to navigate some of the barriers to securing volunteering roles. Such resources are less easily initiated in volunteer roles - we heard frustrations that the Access to Work scheme, which supports paid employment, does not cover voluntary work. • Discrimination and Volunteering. Disabled people continue to experience indirect and direct discrimination. For some, the lack of appropriate devices, limited training, and organisational cultures that make people reluctant to seek support all imply a level of discrimination that makes it difficult for those in volunteering roles to always excel. Such discrimination was not always so indirect. There is evidence to indicate that those who have been in successful volunteering positions for some time suggested they are being denied employment opportunities because they are disabled.

This statistic shows the share of digital tech investments in regional clusters in the United Kingdom (UK) excluding London, from 2012 till 2016. ** percent of the total UK digital tech investments were in regions beyond London in 2016.

A table to download the data will be made available on: http://research.mlabs.org.uk/blog/data-poverty/ .

IntroductionThis paper aims to theoretically and empirically investigate the concept of digital capital in the Italian context. Digital Capital can be conceived as independent individual capital whose lack within a population can be a cause of digital inequality. Our paper draws from recent works that have measured the Digital Capital as a combination of digital access and digital competences, and have tested this operational definition through an online survey on a UK sample. The results of such research proved the construct validity of the operational definition, thus showing that Digital Capital could be empirically measured. However, a measurement model needs to be tested and validated over time and in different socio-cultural contexts in order to be refined and strengthened, and eventually disseminated on a large scale.MethodThis is the reason why this paper will show the results of a funded research project (named DigiCapItaly) carried out to test the validity of the Digital Capital measure in a different country, i.e., Italy. The data were collected with an online survey using a representative sample (by age, gender and geographical area) of individuals living in Italy aged 18 years or more. The creation of a composite index to measure Digital Capital followed a two-stage Principal Component Analysis approach.ResultsFirst, the paper provides a methodological framework for facing challenges and pitfalls in operationalizing and assessing a complex concept in social research. Secondly, results show that Digital Capital operational definition works in Italy as well as in the UK, thus legitimizing its recognition as an independent capital.

UK, India, and Mexico EdTech Market size was valued at USD 23,669.18 Million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 83,500.42 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 17.45% from 2024 to 2031.

UK, India, and Mexico EdTech Market Drivers

Rising Education Expenditure: Governments in these countries are investing more in education, leading to increased spending on EdTech solutions [1, 2, 3]. Growing Internet Penetration: The widespread availability and affordability of internet access are enabling online learning and digital education resources [2, 4]. Demand for Personalized Learning: EdTech solutions offer personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs, improving learning outcomes [3, 5].

UK, India, and Mexico EdTech Market Restraints

Digital Divide: Unequal access to technology and the internet can limit the reach of EdTech solutions, particularly in rural areas [1, 3]. Teacher Training and Adoption: Ensuring teachers are equipped with the skills to effectively use EdTech tools can be a challenge [2, 4].

Following the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, London's adult education sector saw a shift in its approach to teaching and learning, requiring a swift pivot to online delivery methods. In response, the Mayor launched a £9m Skills for Londoners Covid-19 Response Fund. This initiative aimed to bolster the capabilities of adult education providers, ensuring not only the continuation of skills development among Londoners but also addressing the challenge of digital exclusion. To gain a better understanding of the post-pandemic landscape, the Greater London Authority (GLA) commissioned Learning and Work Institute (L&W) to carry out mixed-methods research into the experience of learners in adult education and the quality of adult education provision in London. This report provides an understanding of the impact of the increased use of remote learning following shift to online delivery during the pandemic. This research explored recent trends in remote learning, learner and provider experiences and how policy and best practice can enhance remote learning in the city.

Innovation Labs in cultural heritage institutions emerged in the last years as specialized units which help researchers, artists, entrepreneurs, educators, innovators and any interested citizens and communities to use digital collections in innovative ways. These labs answer two major needs, helping discovery in vast digital collections, and applying new analytic/visualization tools by a wider user base, a process which stirs creative use and reuse of collections and innovation.Most active innovation labs are located in Europe and North America.This dataset was compiled using published reports on innovation labs and internet sources from the public domain between May 2019 and July 2019 by Fidelity Phiri, a visiting researcher at UCL Qatar for projects coordinated by Dr Milena Dobreva. The dataset helps to understand the cultural heritage innovation labs landscape in Africa. While at the time of publishing (20 August 2020) there are no active innovation labs in cultural heritage institutions, one library (Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Egypt) and one museum (Livingstone museum, Zambia) are planning to open such labs. Within this specific setting, the research on Africa aimed to identify stakeholders which can support the setting of innovation labs in cultural heritage institutions. Innovation centres, business incubators and fablabs can play such a role. The rationale for including these institutions is that they could be instrumental for setting up cultural heritage labs on a continent where more work is needed to overcome the digital divide.This map illustrates the dataset. https://www.mapcustomizer.com/map/Innovation labs in Africa

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Satellite Internet Market Size 2025-2029

The satellite internet market size is forecast to increase by USD 7.61 billion at a CAGR of 19.7% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth driven by the increasing number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and the ongoing deployment of 5G networks. The proliferation of IoT devices is expanding the scope of connectivity beyond traditional terrestrial networks, creating a demand for satellite internet solutions in remote and hard-to-reach areas. Furthermore, the integration of satellite internet with 5G networks is enabling seamless connectivity and enhancing the overall performance of these systems. However, the market is not without challenges. Weather conditions, particularly heavy rain and snow, can significantly impact satellite signal quality and disrupt service. To mitigate this issue, companies are investing in advanced technologies such as adaptive modulation and error correction to improve satellite internet reliability in adverse weather conditions. These investments, along with ongoing technological advancements, present opportunities for companies to capitalize on the growing demand for satellite internet and navigate the challenges effectively. Companies seeking to capitalize on these opportunities should focus on developing and reliable satellite internet solutions, while also addressing the impact of weather conditions on their services.

What will be the Size of the Satellite Internet Market during the forecast period?

Request Free SampleThe market encompasses the provision of high-speed connection networks through geostationary satellites, addressing the global connectivity needs of various industries and communities. This market continues to expand, driven by the digital divide and the growing demand for reliable communication capabilities in remote and underserved areas. With increasing bandwidth capabilities, satellite internet is becoming a viable alternative for businesses and individuals in regions with infrastructure challenges. The market is witnessing significant activity, with satellite operators investing in network management systems and international coordination to enhance service delivery. The satellite communication industry is also responding to the evolving needs of sectors such as education, healthcare, economic development, and social inclusion. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, including the impact of natural disasters on satellite infrastructure and the ongoing efforts to improve affordability and accessibility. Overall, the market is poised for continued growth, offering valuable solutions for enhancing global communication and connectivity.

How is this Satellite Internet Industry segmented?

The satellite internet industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. TypeK-bandX-bandL-bandC-bandEnd-userCommercialNon-commercialGeographyNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeFranceGermanyRussiaUKAPACChinaIndiaJapanSouth AmericaBrazilMiddle East and Africa

By Type Insights

The k-band segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.The K-band segment leads The market due to its extensive usage in defense, broadcasting, and security applications. The adoption of K-band monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) technology, which facilitates the production of low-noise amplifiers and K-band power amplifiers at a large scale, with cost efficiency and high durability, is fueling market growth. K-band frequency is primarily utilized for wireless broadband access in remote locations, including local-multipoint distribution systems (LMDS), fixed satellites, and digital point-to-point radio services. This technology addresses the connectivity needs of underserved regions and contributes to bridging the digital divide. The advancements in satellite technology, such as high-capacity satellite constellations and bandwidth capabilities, further boost the market's expansion. Satellite infrastructure plays a crucial role in disaster management, emergency response scenarios, and the delivery of digital services like healthcare and education in remote areas. Ensuring seamless connectivity, high-speed network connectivity, and coverage range are essential factors driving the demand for satellite internet. Additionally, satellite telecommunications providers are continually enhancing their network management systems, international coordination, and service offerings to cater to the evolving needs of businesses and communities.

Get a glance at the market report of share of various segments Request Free Sample

The K-band segment was valued at USD 919.00 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

North America

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Higher Education Market Size 2025-2029

The higher education market size is forecast to increase by USD 117.9 billion, at a CAGR of 18.9% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant shifts driven by advances in educational content delivery methods and the increasing prioritization of AI technology-integrated course offerings. This transformation is fueled by the growing expectation for flexible and accessible learning solutions, as well as the need to accommodate the rising cost of higher education. Institutions are increasingly adopting digital platforms and tools to enhance teaching and learning experiences, enabling students to access course materials and engage with instructors from anywhere, at any time. However, this transition poses challenges, such as ensuring data security and privacy, addressing the digital divide, and maintaining academic rigor in a technology-driven environment.
The market continues to evolve, with dynamic market activities unfolding across various sectors. Student support services, such as continuing education and financial aid, remain crucial in ensuring student success. Curriculum development and research collaboration are key areas of focus for higher education institutions, driving the need for instructor training and campus infrastructure improvements. Digital literacy and educational technology are increasingly integrated into degree programs, from bachelor's degrees to doctoral degrees, with online courses and blended learning becoming more prevalent. Digital archives and online libraries provide essential resources for students and faculty, while research funding and tuition fees shape the financial landscape.
 Cybersecurity incidents in education rose by 44% year-over-year in 2023, making data security and privacy critical concerns. Additionally, an estimated 34% of students in low-income or rural areas still lack reliable internet access, highlighting the persistent digital divide. To capitalize on these opportunities and navigate these challenges effectively, higher education institutions must remain agile and innovative, continuously adapting to the evolving needs of students and the market.

Major Market Trends & Insights

  APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 35% growth during the forecast period.
  The market is expected to grow significantly in North America as well over the forecast period.
  By the Learning Method, the Online sub-segment was valued at USD 33.59 billion in 2023
  By the End-user, the Private colleges sub-segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

  Market Opportunities: USD 294.62 billion
  Future Opportunities: USD 117.9 billion 
  CAGR : 18.9%
  APAC: Largest market in 2023

What will be the Size of the Higher Education Market during the forecast period?

Understand digital transformation trends in Higher Education Request Free Sample

The higher education market is experiencing rapid transformation, driven by the adoption of digital learning platforms, smart classroom technologies, and cloud-based education management systems. Institutions are increasingly implementing data analytics dashboards and AI-driven learning management systems to personalize student experiences and improve operational efficiency. The growing integration of automation features, predictive analytics, and compliance management tools aligns closely with the EdTech Solutions Market and smart campus market, ensuring streamlined academic processes and resource optimization.
Modern campuses are leveraging building automation and IoT in Education Market to enhance sustainability, energy efficiency, and student safety. Furthermore, virtual learning environments, VR-based simulations, and adaptive assessment tools are reshaping how institutions deliver education, enabling flexibility and scalability. Internal linking opportunities exist with markets like learning management systems, Cloud-Based Property Solutions Market, and Facility Management Software Market, which share synergies in infrastructure optimization and digital administration.
Recent analysis suggests that over 72% of higher education institutions plan to expand technology budgets for e-learning platforms by 2029, reflecting a strong focus on automation, data-driven decision-making, and student-centric solutions for competitive advantage.
Retention rates and graduation rates are essential metrics, with career services and alumni relations playing a crucial role in student engagement and post-graduation success. As of 2023, the average first-year retention rate in U.S. colleges was around 76%, while the six-year graduation rate stood at approximately 64%, highlighting the ongoing need for stronger student engagement and support systems. Personalized learning, gamified learning, and adaptiv