We know that rural young people have less access to higher education than do metropolitan youth, and that the effect of location is a much stronger influence than SES or achievement (Rothman, Hillman, McKenzie, & Marks, 2009). We also know that, based on achievement data, many rural young people, who might be expected to enrol in university,…

This article is essentially written as two linked parts. The first part considers how space, spatiality and history can contribute to understanding and "doing something about" the sustainability of rural communities. This is done by extensive reference to Soja's (1989 & 1996) space and spatial theorising and selective perspectives of…

Australia's education system has attracted much recognition over the last few years due to the above average achievement of our students when compared to other OECD countries in large-scale international tests in science, numeracy and literacy. However, when these results are analysed more closely, large gaps emerge in student achievement between…

Explores quantitative and qualitative dimensions of rurality in pursuit of a definition. Distinguishes between rural education and education in rural areas. Discusses rural-urban differences in values and lifestyle. Advocates defining rurality from the rural resident's perspective, emphasizing diversity of social, cultural, and occupational…

In Australia, government-funded equity programs have positively impacted the equality of rural schooling, but persistent issues remain. A literature review examines positive and negative features of rural schooling related to teachers, school size, academic achievement, completion rates, curriculum, lifestyle, and social justice. (Contains 66…

A study compared the performance of rural and urban Western Australian students on the college-entrance mathematics examination following introduction of graphics calculators. Although urban students scored higher than rural students in the 3 years studied, the gap remained relatively consistent, indicating that rural students were not further…

A 1993 survey of 500 households in rural Scotland, followed by 120 interviews, found that poverty was widespread; subjective assessments of poverty contradicted objective definitions in that people were satisfied with rural life; acceptance of government benefits was low; rental housing was scarce; employment opportunities were limited, especially…

The newly developed Cultural Learning Environment Questionnaire (CLEQ) and other measures were administered to 2,023 secondary students in 39 urban, provincial, rural, and mining-town schools in Western Australia. Rural students were least likely to perceive positive teacher-student interpersonal behaviors. Certain CLEQ scales were related to…

Discusses semantic complexities rampant in attempts to define rurality. Examines environmental and economic aspects of rurality and impacts on education. Proposes a definition of rurality based on five human considerations: approximate geographic divisions, level of access to community services, industry type, population makeup, and the…

A survey of 20 parents of 3-year-old children attending an early childhood service in an isolated rural community in Victoria, Australia, found an overwhelming desire for children to develop social skills. Preparation for city life, exposure to cultural opportunities, and having teachers prepared for the unique aspects of rural life were also…

Definitions of "education" and "rural" are debunked and expanded. The three major tasks of rural education are educating people to understand their own needs, the unavoidable changes that will transform rural Australia within their lifetimes, and the range of technologies that can enhance their well-being. Presents a strategy…

Recommends implementing specialized preparation for rural preschool teachers to function effectively as distance educators. Addresses differences between urban and rural environments affecting education; the important role of parents as educators in distance education; and the need for distance education preschool teachers to reconceptualize their…

One of the most enduring concerns of government and educational planners in developing countries is how to reduce rural-urban inequalities in educational provision. The aim is to ensure that all children have equal access to education of good quality irrespective of region, ethnicity and social class. This paper critically examines the provision…

A survey of 85 rural and metro academics at two Australian universities found that rural faculty experienced more autonomy, cross-disciplinary stimulation, and connection to community. Rural disadvantages included professional isolation, fewer opportunities for research and advancement, and metropolitan management structures. Most of those with…