Comment pourrait-on mesurer la double fracture numérique?

Abstract

In the continuation of studies on a "first-level" digital divide (Internet access), a recent literature pointed to the existence of a "second-level" digital divide (Internet use) concerning differences in people's online skills. Parallel to this literature, another research topic has used 'clickstream data' to study the measurement of Internet uses. The main findings indicate the existence of a "surfing law" in terms of which most sites receive only a few visits. In this paper the author establishes a link between these two literatures. He considers the point to which it is possible to use clickstream data to measure online ability, and shows that Internet behaviours must be analysed not at an aggregate level (web sites) but rather at a disaggregate level (Internet users). Finally, he discusses the relationship between heterogeneity and inequality of online behaviours.