Broadband Development Conference
Benton Institute, Research Director
Dr. Caroline Stratton directs the Benton Institute's research efforts to support a broadband-for-all agenda. She leads and facilitates research that demonstrates the benefits of broadband adoption and the costs of disconnection for individuals and communities. Caroline holds a Ph.D. in Information Studies from the University of Texas at Austin and a BS in Nuclear & Radiological Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. She has conducted research about digital inequality and inclusion in previous roles at the National Digital Inclusion Alliance and at Florida State University.
Building the infrastructure is only half the battle in broadband: to sustain that network, you need subscribers. Whether it’s making the case to older adults to use telehealth, helping local entrepreneurs bring a small business online, or letting parents stay in touch with their children’s schools, potential subscribers need to know the why and the how. That’s where digital inclusion programs come in, helping community members see broadband’s value in their day-to-day lives and teaching them how to use it safely and effectively. Join digital inclusion experts to discuss on the ground knowledge of barriers and best practices to broadband adoption. We’ll cover affordability, digital skills, safety and security, and digital confidence – all through looking at real examples that can provide a roadmap to drive broadband adoption in your community.
