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Why Computers Matter: A Conversation with Dr. Amy Gonzales

Millions of people in the U.S. face barriers to opportunity because they don’t have access to a reliable computer. In this interview, Dr. Amy Gonzales, Associate Professor at UC Santa Barbara, joins Digitunity board member Allison Strobel to explore the real-world impact of computer ownership, and why large-screen devices matter more than ever.

This interview builds on findings from Amy’s co-authored paper, published in the Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, May 2025: “First-Level Fundamentals: Computer Ownership Is More Important for Internet Benefits than In-Home Internet Service.”  Read the full paper here.

" Analysis of census data from 2020 and 2023 shows that using a computer is more strongly associated with beneficial uses of the internet than having in-home internet."

- Gonzales & Zhang, Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 2025 Tweet

 Watch the Full Interview Below

What the Research Shows

This conversation draws on national survey data and years of qualitative research to highlight a central truth: Computer ownership is the gateway to opportunity.

New findings confirm what communities have long understood:

  • Computers are consistently associated with higher rates of online job applications, healthcare access, and use of government services.
  • Smartphones and internet alone are not enough for online activities.
  • Poor-quality devices and lack of technical support create invisible barriers that add up over time.

Why This Matters

  • 1 in 7 U.S. households do not have a large-screen computer at home
  • Over 33 million people are affected by the digital divide
  • Device quality matters: The paper found that the functionality of the computer (not just its presence) further explained differences in outcomes, meaning having a computer isn’t enough if it doesn’t work well.

What’s Needed

Dr. Gonzales outlines a path forward, one that centers on systems-level change:

  • Access to reliable, functional large-screen computers
  • Affordable broadband
  • Digital skills training and emotional support
  • Technical assistance and device maintenance
  • Visibility, outreach, and investment in public-facing computing infrastructure

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