For Immediate Release
Contact: Hillary Crowder, 703-351-2086, [email protected]
Arlington, Va. (January 10, 2014) – The Foundation for Rural Service (FRS) released its “2013 Rural Youth Telecommunications Survey,” with 66% of rural teens citing broadband Internet access as a determining factor in where they will ultimately decide to live. More than 90% of survey respondents have an Internet connection in their home.
The biannual survey garnered 1,114 rural youth respondents between the ages of 14 and 23. Respondents cited homework and research as their predominant online activities. Other popular online activities include participation in online communities, sending email, Web surfing, downloading music and shopping. More than four in 10 respondents receive Internet access from their local telephone company, and nearly a third said they do not know the name of their Internet service provider.
“Broadband access for rural youth plays a crucial role in education needs, social media and access to consumer goods. Their access allows them to participate and benefit from the digital information and economy,” stated Elizabeth Crocker, executive director of the FRS. “This survey is a great way to know more about young technology consumers in rural America who are vital to the future growth and sustainability of their communities.”
For the full report, visit www.frs.org.
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The Foundation for Rural Service (FRS), in cooperation with NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association and its members, seeks to sustain and enhance the quality of life throughout rural America by advancing an understanding of rural telecommunications issues. FRS is committed to educational achievement in rural communities, recognizing that tomorrow’s economic and civic development depends on the involvement and commitment of today’s youth. Visit us at www.frs.org.
NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association is the premier association representing nearly 900 independent, community-based telecommunications companies that are leading innovation in rural and small-town America. NTCA advocates on behalf of its members in the legislative and regulatory arenas, and it provides training and development; publications and industry events; and an array of employee benefit programs. In an era of exploding technology, deregulation and marketplace competition, NTCA’s members are leading the IP evolution for rural consumers, delivering technologies that make rural communities vibrant places in which to live and do business. Because of their efforts, rural America is fertile ground for innovation in economic development and commerce, education, health care, government services, security and smart energy use. Visit us at www.ntca.org.