Bridging Gaps in Online Learning: A Systematic Literature Review on the Digital Divide

This study explores the evolution and challenges of the digital divide in online education, intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic’s shift toward digital learning environments. A systematic literature review was conducted using three databases: Web of Science, Scopus, and the Education Resources Information Centre. The review focuses on identifying research designs, aims, and barriers within the literature from 2013 to 2023, highlighting the impact of the digital divide on access to educational technologies and digital literacy. A total of twenty-two articles were included in the dataset. The review reveals that despite advancements in online education technologies, significant disparities persist in access, digital skills, and educational outcomes, particularly affecting marginalized communities in both urban and rural settings. The study underscores the necessity for enhanced infrastructure, targeted educational policies, and inclusive teaching practices to bridge these gaps. Recommendations are provided for future research directions and practical implementations to mitigate the digital divide’s impact on educational equity.