Core Tech Support Networks and Digital Inequalities in American Disadvantaged Urban Communities
研究了美国弱势社区中核心技术支持网络的规模、资源和构成如何影响互联网使用和基本数字技能的不平等，发现网络规模和资源能缩小使用差距，但无法提升技能熟练度。
Abstract This study originates the construct of core tech support networks to understand the most fundamental digital inequality issues that remain in disadvantaged communities. Beyond social inequalities, digital factors, and social capital, this study explores how three different characteristics of core tech support networks are related to digital inequalities, such as gaps in Internet use and basic digital skills. The results show that the overall size of core tech support networks and the better resources embedded in the networks can narrow gaps in Internet use and the presence of basic digital skills. However, they do not further improve the proficiency levels of basic digital skills. Core tech support networks’ composition based on tie strength is not related to inequalities in either Internet use or basic digital skills. This study provides both valuable theoretical and practical implications for digital inequalities and digital inclusion.