TY  - CHAP
AB  - Purpose This study examines whether open Wi-Fi systems in Austin, Texas, have much effect in expanding digital inclusion. These systems were hailed a decade ago as means to provide low-cost access to disadvantaged groups, but these claims were also met with some skepticism.Methodology/approach This study uses secondary data analysis of a survey conducted by the City of Austin to assess what groups in the city are using the Internet. It uses descriptive statistics to get a sense of who is using the systems and then logistic regression models to see which factors lead to use of open Wi-Fi.Findings The users of these systems may not have the resources to afford home broadband in many instances, but these systems are largely used by people with highly educated parents and comfort with computing. The Internet users are largely representative of Austin.Practical implications Simply offering Internet services via Wi-Fi is likely ineffective in expanding Internet use among disadvantaged populations.Social implications Organizations who are interested in expanding Internet access to disadvantaged communities may want to consider how issues of social support may or may not be addressed by a project.Originality/value This study attempts to apply Pierre Bourdieu’s concept of multiple forms of capital to a quantitative study using secondary data by constructing an index from existing survey items.
VL  - 10
SN  - 978-1-78560-381-5, 978-1-78560-380-8/2050-2060
DO  - 10.1108/S2050-206020150000010008
UR  - https://doi.org/10.1108/S2050-206020150000010008
AU  - McConnell Christopher
AU  - Straubhaar Joseph
PY  - 2015
Y1  - 2015/01/01
TI  - Contextualizing Open Wi-Fi Network Use with Multiple Capitals
T2  - Communication and Information Technologies Annual
T3  - Studies in Media and Communications
PB  - Emerald Group Publishing Limited
SP  - 205
EP  - 232
Y2  - 2024/04/25
ER  -