Reliance on smartphones for online access varies based on a range of factors, including educational attainment and income. According to the Pew Research Center, 39% of adults without a high school diploma are smartphone dependent (i.e., don’t use home broadband but own a smartphone) as compared to 10% of college graduates.
Likewise, 31% of adults making less than $30,000 are smartphone dependent as compared to 9% of those making $75,000. Access and usage data such as this must be contemplated as we consider plans for online and blended learning in adult basic skills education.