Broadband Internet will wire the next generation

In September 2009 President Barack Obama laid out “A Strategy for American Innovation.” Now the administration has kicked off a series of forums across the country to engage university leaders and key stakeholders in the valuable dialogue already under way — specifically, on taking ideas from the lab to the marketplace to drive economic growth.

Georgia Tech hosted one of these forums this month, allowing some of Atlanta’s finest academics and innovators to contribute to this important conversation.

Given our current economic conditions, this could not be timelier. A recent report by the Pew Research Center details the pain the recession we are experiencing is causing those not fortunate enough to be on top, stating that out of the 13 U.S. recessions since the Great Depression, “none has presented a more punishing combination of length, breadth and depth than this one.”

Of those surveyed, more than 25 percent suffered a work-hour reduction; 23 percent took a pay cut; 12 percent were forced to take unpaid leave; and 11 percent were ordered to either leave or accept a part-time assignment.

This doesn’t paint a pretty picture. When you also consider Georgia’s 10.3 percent unemployment rate — which has been higher than the national average for 30 months — it makes sense that the job market is now more competitive than ever, leaving no room for applicant error or shortcomings.

Nearly two-thirds of all corporations require resumes to be submitted online, and most colleges and universities require applications to be submitted electronically as well.

For many low-income and minority Americans who do not have access to broadband Internet or the technologies needed to meet this requirement, this closes a door and the cycle of hardship continues.

In order to interrupt this cycle, we need to encourage investment and innovation that will extend new technologies, applications and rich educational content to all Americans.

We need to do this in our schools at all levels, in our libraries, our museums and, of course, in our homes. There is a world of unparalleled opportunity out here, and it needs to be available for all Americans.

Today, broadband Internet access enhances every level of education. At the higher levels, our top colleges and universities are not only offering courses online, but also using the full scope of the Internet to provide greater access to education.

Schools now use new technology to offer advanced classes to students in remote locations. By eliminating the need to travel, students can participate in classes at the schools of their choice, and curriculum choices are practically unlimited.

Meanwhile, at the lower levels, our primary and secondary schools are working to prepare students to enter the 21st century work force — teaching important computer skills that go beyond technical proficiency to include high-level abilities like critical thinking and problem solving as well as the creative use of technology.

Tomorrow’s applicants will not only have the tools and skills to apply electronically, they will also be prepared to succeed and to excel as participants in the American job force.

The key here is access — and unfortunately there are millions who still do not have access to these opportunities. Another Pew report just released reveals progress, finding that more Americans than ever before are wirelessly online, and that both African-Americans and Hispanics are the leading users of mobile broadband — but there is still work to do.

Clearly, these are promising trends, and we need to avoid any policies that would hinder this progress as we continue to work to offer affordable broadband to everyone. Increasing connectivity will bring a stronger economy and more job opportunities for students once they complete their studies.

And the earlier every student in America is connected, the brighter our future will be. Increased access will also provide opportunities for adults who are not currently at the top to access the education and skills they need to compete and survive in today’s highly competitive job market.

Aside from providing the boost that our economy desperately needs, increased innovation and investment in new technologies like broadband will keep us on track to stay competitive in the global market.