James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2001

ED4930:04

Rural Education

Townsville, Cairns

20 lectures, 20 tutorials. Second semester (Townsville campus); September intensive mode (Cairns campus).

Available to level 4 Bachelor of Education students.

Staff: Dr D McSwan.

This subject introduces students to the community and the social and professional roles of the teacher in rural and isolated areas. It focuses on the multi-faceted roles of the school as a central component of the rural community; the administrative and organisational responsibilities of teachers and principals; the interpretation and development of appropriate curriculum statements; the identification and utilisation of community and environmental resources; classroom organisation; support services and systems provided by the Education Department; parent organisations; evaluation of teaching materials; and modern communication technology and services available to rural and isolated areas. Similarities between education and health service delivery problems will be examined.

Learning Objectives:

  1. the differences and commonalities between rural and urban schools and communities;
  2. the challenges faced by teachers and other professionals, e.g. health workers in rural and isolated areas;
  3. the role and modes of distance education;
  4. the rapidly changing communication technology in remote areas.

Assessment by major essay (40%); seminar presentation (20%); essay (40%).