16 November 1999
Rural and Remote Education Inquiry survey results
Rural and remote schools need better levels of resources and greater certainty in funding according to respondents to a major education survey.
Over 3,000 teachers, parents and students responded to the survey from all around the country. More than half of the respondents were rural and remote students.
The survey was conducted by the Youth Research Centre at the University of Melbourne. It is one component of the National Inquiry into Rural and Remote School Education being conducted by Human Rights Commissioner Chris Sidoti. The Inquiry will report towards the middle of next year.
"This research confirms evidence we have already collected through public hearings about many issues including the lack of access to computers and the cost of internet access", said Mr Sidoti. "The overwhelming response reflects concern about the state of education in rural and remote areas. These results will be very useful for the final report."
Researcher Helen Stokes from the Youth Research Centre, said "The substantial variation in experiences we heard from different parts of the country underlines how a diversity of rural education strategies is needed."
"While many people confirmed the benefits of living in smaller communities", she said, "they also face certain disadvantages in educating their children."
Other key findings in the survey were:
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the majority of families receiving Assistance for Isolated Children reported that the full education cost is not covered
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few if any special needs teachers are working in distance education to assist students with disabilities
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between 20% (Victoria) and 38% (SA) of students reported they could not study the subjects of their choice at school
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in WA and Tasmania only about one-third of students responding hoped to go on to university compared with almost one-half in NSW.
The survey responses include strategies and ideas for improving educational provision, access and quality.
Helen Stokes is available for interview at the University of Melbourne on (03) 9344 9646. For further information please call Jackie Randles on (02) 9284 9880 or 0419 258 597.
Last updated 2 December 2001.
