Rural B.C. Struggles with Internet Access Despite Growing Demand

A recent study highlights significant gaps in high-speed internet access for residents in rural British Columbia, despite increasing demands for quality connectivity. Researchers from the University of British Columbia (UBC) Okanagan, Cherisse Seaton and Kathy Rush, uncovered that many individuals in these areas face persistent challenges, impacting their daily lives and access to essential services.

The study emphasizes that rural populations are often at a disadvantage when it comes to internet connectivity. Factors contributing to this issue include frequent power outages and insufficient infrastructure to support high-speed internet. Both Seaton and Rush, who have personal ties to rural communities, are keenly aware of these disparities. Rush, a professor studying health equity, grew up in rural New Brunswick, while Seaton experienced dial-up internet living outside of Prince George.

“They’ve got a mismatch between what they need to live their lives in their rural communities and what resources they have to really meet that need,”

Rush stated. This gap is particularly pronounced among older individuals, those living in more isolated areas, and those with fewer devices. The study reveals that even though these groups tend to use the internet frequently, they often lack the necessary high-speed access.

The researchers also noted variations within rural regions. Some communities have access to high-speed internet, while specific households do not. Seaton explained that this inconsistency leads to frustration among residents who feel the pressure to stay connected in a digital age.

The study indicates that rural residents are resourceful in overcoming these connectivity issues. Some individuals adjust their internet usage to avoid peak traffic times or maintain multiple subscriptions to ensure they have backup access when needed. Nevertheless, this reliance on workarounds becomes increasingly burdensome as digital access is essential for a wide range of activities, including paying bills, accessing healthcare, and communicating with others.

Seaton remarked on the growing expectation for individuals to be well-connected.

“Participants described this growing expectation for all citizens to be well-connected. Yet for many – those with and without high-speed internet – that wasn’t a reality,”

she noted. This pressure affects not just those lacking access but also those who are tech-savvy yet face limitations in their connectivity options.

Despite assumptions that rural residents may be uninterested in or incapable of using the internet, the study found that people from all backgrounds share similar needs and usage patterns as their urban counterparts. Seaton pointed out that stereotypes about rural citizens being technologically behind are unfounded.

“Our work helps to show that, I think,”

she added, stressing the importance of recognizing the digital needs of these communities.

Beyond accessing essential services like telehealth, rural residents utilize the internet to connect with one another and their surroundings. Platforms such as Facebook play a crucial role in keeping communities informed about local news, weather updates, and even wildlife sightings.

As the importance of reliable internet access continues to grow, Seaton and Rush aim to shed light on the disparities between those with and without high-speed connectivity.

“There is concern in many places that digital seems to have become the default. Our participants did really highlight growing concern with the lack of backup options, the lack of shrinking public spaces for digital engagement,”

Seaton noted. She emphasized that no citizen should be excluded from critical services like healthcare due to inadequate digital access.

The findings from this study underscore the urgent need for improved infrastructure and resource allocation to ensure that all residents, regardless of their location, can access reliable internet services. The implications of this research extend beyond mere convenience, as high-speed connectivity has become increasingly vital for participation in modern society.