Accessing Appalachia - One Byte at a Time - The Need for Broadband Access in Rural Eastern Kentucky Region

The digital divide presents a significant challenge in rural Eastern Kentucky, where the absence of broadband internet access has hindered economic development, education, health care, and overall quality of life. Broadband, characterized by high-speed internet access that is always on and faster than traditional dial-up, is a convenience and a necessity in the contemporary world. This paper explores the critical need for broadband deployment in rural Eastern Kentucky, underscoring its potential to transform the region by promoting economic growth, enhancing educational opportunities, improving healthcare access through telemedicine, and fostering social inclusion. Despite the challenging terrain and the high costs associated with infrastructure development in these areas, the paper argues that innovative solutions and strategic investments can overcome these barriers. The paper concludes with policy recommendations to accelerate broadband deployment in Eastern Kentucky, emphasizing the role of federal, state, and local governments in partnership with private sector stakeholders. Through a comprehensive approach that includes policy reform, financial incentives, and community engagement, broadband access in Eastern Kentucky can bridge the digital divide, unlock economic potential, and significantly improve the lives of its residents.

Name thesis:degree_name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

Year

2024

Author dc:creator

• Price, James Douglas

• Broadband;Digital Divide;Distance Learning
• Education
• Educational Leadership

Repository record dc:identifier

https://encompass.eku.edu/etd/821

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:encompass.eku.edu:etd-1819