RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK — Studies show that less than one-third of African-American families own personal computers. One company is trying to make sure those children are not left behind in today's high-tech world.

IBMinvited about 150 children from local churches for a "Tech Saturday" class this weekend. It was part of a program aimed at bridging what some call the "digital divide."

Studies show that only 6 percent of Americans who use the Internet are black. IBM hopes that educating kids about computer pays off for both the teachers and the students.

"Our world is a technology world," said IBM's Nicole Pride. "It's moving forward. We're going to need to hire these folks later at IBM, so we need children to be educated and have access to technology."

The high-tech lessons will not end after Saturday's class. IBM employees will work with local churches to develop computer programs for their young members.