Here’s the requested summary of the most relevant TPRC report in Jekyll Markdown format:
title: “Summary of TPRC Report: A Comprehensive Framework to Monitor, Evaluate, and Guide Broadband & Digital Equity Policy” author: “Johannes Bauer, Pierrette Renée Dagg, Colin Rhinesmith, Greta Byrum, Aaron Schill” date: 2023-08-30 layout: post —
Overview
The report, presented at TPRC 2023, introduces a multi-centric, agile framework for monitoring, evaluating, and guiding broadband and digital equity policies. It addresses the challenges posed by rapid technological transformation and emphasizes iterative learning cycles for policy improvement.1
Core Concepts
-
Digital Opportunities Compass
A structured tool for assessing broadband and digital equity initiatives across six dimensions:
Contexts, Governance, Connectivity, Skills, Applications, Outcomes.
This compass enables stakeholders to identify gaps and prioritize interventions effectively.1 -
Policy Learning Approach
The framework advocates for continuous feedback loops, integrating empirical evidence and stakeholder input to refine strategies. This concept aligns with the idea of a “policy learning machine,” where iterative evaluation drives adaptive policymaking.1
Key Contributions
- Agility in Policy Design
Encourages flexible, data-driven decision-making to respond to evolving broadband needs. - Equity-Centered Metrics
Provides indicators for measuring digital inclusion beyond mere access, incorporating affordability, skills, and community capacity. - Collaborative Governance
Highlights the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement, including local governments, nonprofits, and research institutions.1
Why It Matters
This framework is critical for ensuring that broadband expansion and digital equity programs are effective, inclusive, and sustainable, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
Public Access
The full report is available on SSRN:
Electronic copy on SSRN1