A content analysis of Latina Web content

Studies of the digital divide have focused on lack of access to hardware, software, connectivity, and computer skills. Newer studies point to the existence of other factors such as the lack of culturally relevant content. Driven by this issue, this study provides a preliminary map of the “nature” of Web-based content about U.S. Latinas, a community that has traditionally been underrepresented in information systems. The nature of the content was explored and analyzed by examining attributes such as type of site, language of site, topic(s), producer(s) of site, technical features, and targeted audience. The study also theorizes the lack of relevant content and discusses the possible social implications of the disparities in access to digital information technologies. Using content analysis, the study provides a framework with which to categorize and analyze Web content. The results suggest content areas that need development and potential information barriers to consider in the process.