DIGITAL LITERACY
What is Digital Inclusion?
Digital Inclusion is the work we’re doing on the Central Coast to make sure that all residents have the capacity to fully participate in our digital economy and society. Its core components include access to affordable, high-speed internet, internet-enabled devices, and digital skills training, each of which are necessary for employment, learning, and health. Together, they promote digital equity and a thriving, resilient region.
MBEP’s Digital Inclusion Projects
Digital Skills Courses
Rapidly advancing technology means that individuals must continually acquire digital skills. These are skills that enable individuals to utilize the internet and digital devices safely, confidently, and effectively.
MBEP has partnered with Rural Prosperity Center and Parent University Consortium to offer free, in-person and virtual digital skills classes in English and Spanish.
Beginner courses include lessons on navigating:
- Search engines, internet, and email
- Online tools (Google Workspace, Microsoft Office)
- Digital health resources
- Employment websites and applications
Intermediate courses include lessons on:
- Mastering online tools (Google Workspace, Microsoft Office)
- Cybersecurity
- AI
- Digital finance
- Wix Studio for web design
All residents are encouraged to sign up for free digital skills classes, offered in English and Spanish. These courses will equip you with the critical skills that will allow you to thrive in a technology-driven world. Funding for this project has been provided in part through a grant by the Broadband Adoption Account of the California Advanced Services Fund, a program administered by the California Public Utilities Commission.
Connected Communities Hubs
Many members of our community lack basic access to reliable internet and internet-enabled devices. This access is necessary for learning, working, communicating, and accessing essential resources.
MBEP will launch 9 fully-equipped Connected Communities Hubs that provide free, public access to high-speed Wi-Fi and desktop computers. At each hub in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito Counties, a bilingual Digital Navigator will be available during monthly Drop-In Help Hours, offering one-on-one support in checking eligibility and enrolling in low-cost broadband internet plans.