Bridging the Digital Divide: An Examination of Disparities in Technology Access Between Rural and Urban High School Students

This study examined the digital divide between rural and urban high school students, focusing on disparities in access to digital devices, internet connectivity, digital literacy, and the perceived academic impact of digital access. A total of 80 participants—40 from Kawayan Integrated School (rural) and 40 from Malandag National High School (urban)—were selected using stratified random sampling based on grade level and gender. The study employed descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation to analyze the data gathered from a structured survey. Results revealed a significant gap in digital access, with urban students reporting higher device ownership, more stable internet connections, and greater confidence in using digital tools for school-related activities compared to their rural counterparts. Rural students cited challenges such as limited internet access, high data costs, and a lack of digital skills, all of which negatively influenced their academic engagement and performance. Despite these challenges, both groups of students expressed a strong interest in receiving additional digital literacy training. This common need highlights the increasing importance of digital competence in contemporary education, regardless of location. The study concludes that addressing the digital divide is critical to achieving equity in educational opportunities. It recommends targeted interventions, such as improved ICT infrastructure, the provision of devices, and school-based training programs, to support learners in under-resourced areas. These findings provide a foundation for policy actions aimed at fostering inclusive and accessible digital education in the Philippines.