Regional University Access
A Case Study from the South West
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47381/aijre.v12i1.481Keywords:
online learning, support resources, regional univeristyAbstract
Access to appropriate training is a key to developing human resource is and enhancing quality of life in regional areas. Yet like many other service providers, universities are faced with the high costs of delivering services in regions with a small and scattered client pool. Thus, the challenge: how can universities serve regional communities and promote regional development while remaining cost effective and sustainable? Distance education technologies appear to offer a solution yet they may fail to respond to the underground needs of regional students.
In late 2000, Edith Cowan University commissioned a study to consider the challenge of regional service delivery, in the context of Warren-Blackwood region of South West Australia. This isolated, in land region has been undergoing economic displacement in the wake of timber industry restructuring; Improved training access has been identified as a regional development priority (Warren-Blackwood Action Plan, 2000) this paper presents the results of the study examining the demand for, and delivery of, university services in the Warren Blackwood region.
Surveys, focus groups and interviews with students and former students highlighted key trends, such as the pre university (year 10) exodus of youth from the region and the tendency for regionally based students to be mature aged. The paper identifies challenges, both logistical and psychological facing people who undertake long distance university studies (whether as distance-ed or commuting students). Finally, the paper suggests low-cost ways to facilitate the learning experience of students based in regional areas, by understanding the culture of learning and providing access to basic support resource is, regardless of the technological sophistication of course delivery.
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Copyright (c) 2023 Robyn Eversole
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