Digital Inequality, AI and the Post Office Scandal: Is Technology Leaving People Behind?
Season 1 • Episode 2
36 min
Published January 2024
Digital Inequality • AI Ethics • Inclusive Technology
Episode summary
Technology is transforming every aspect of our lives, but is everyone benefiting equally? In this episode, Rebecca Franks and Beverly Clarke MBE explore digital inequality, accessibility and the growing reliance on technology in everyday life. From boarding passes and transport systems to healthcare and public services, they discuss the hidden barriers many people face when digital systems fail or exclude users.
The conversation also explores the Post Office Horizon scandal, questioning how software failures, poor governance and a lack of accountability can have devastating real-world consequences. Rebecca and Beverly consider what educators, technology professionals and policymakers can learn from these events and why testing, accessibility and diverse perspectives must be at the heart of technology design.
Finally, they discuss emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, immersive entertainment, drone shows and sustainable technology, asking important questions about ethics, environmental impact and the future of digital innovation.
Journey insights
- Digital systems should improve people’s lives, not create new barriers.
- Accessibility and inclusion must be considered from the very beginning of technology design.
- Software should always be rigorously tested and challenged before being trusted with critical decisions.
- Artificial intelligence creates exciting opportunities but also raises important ethical and legal questions.
- Curiosity and critical thinking are essential skills for navigating an increasingly digital world.
Is this episode for you?
This episode is for you if you are:
- Educators interested in digital literacy and computing education.
- Technology professionals designing products and services.
- Leaders responsible for digital transformation.
- Anyone interested in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
- People concerned about accessibility, digital inclusion and ethical technology.
About this episode
What happens when technology fails the very people it is supposed to help? Rebecca Franks and Beverly Clarke MBE explore digital inequality, accessibility, the Post Office Horizon scandal, artificial intelligence and the growing role of technology in our everyday lives. Through practical examples and thoughtful discussion, they examine why inclusive design, better governance and ethical decision-making are essential as society becomes increasingly dependent on digital systems.
About the speakers
Rebecca Franks
Rebecca Franks is an award-winning technology educator, entrepreneur and Co-founder of Flip Computing. With more than 20 years of experience in education, she has authored national computing curricula, developed AI education programmes and speaks internationally about technology, inclusion and innovation. Rebecca is passionate about helping people build confidence, develop digital skills and discover rewarding careers in technology.
Beverly Clarke MBE
Beverly Clarke MBE is a technology leader, educator, coach and author with over 20 years of experience in education and digital skills. She is the author of the Ava and Chip children’s book series and is passionate about digital inclusion, artificial intelligence, coaching and empowering people to achieve their potential. Beverly was awarded an MBE for services to computing and digital education.
Together, Rebecca and Beverly share honest conversations about technology, careers, entrepreneurship and the lessons they are learning along the way.
Resources mentioned
- The Post Office Horizon scandal
- Digital Poverty Alliance
- Learning Foundation
- BBC Computer Says No
- Los Angeles digital discrimination initiative
- Layered Reality’s Elvis AI experience
- BBC Earth Experience
- Dalí Cybernetics exhibition
- Green IT and sustainable technology
- Drone light shows
