In this introductory episode, Narelle Lemon (Teachers Supporting Teachers producer and professor based at Mount Lawley campus of Edith Cowan University) and her series co-host plus guest for this episode Marnie Harris delve into the topic of regional, rural, and remote educational experiences. Marnie, the primary professional experience coordinator at Edith Cowan University's South West campus in Bunbury, shares her expertise and research in this area.
Marnie defines regional, rural, and remote education based on the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority's classifications, which consider the distance of a school from a major service center. While these areas are often grouped together, each is unique and presents its own challenges and opportunities for pre-service teachers.
The discussion explores factors that attract some pre-service teachers to regional, rural, and remote experiences, such as funding, family connections, curiosity, and the desire to "try before you buy." Marnie also highlights the benefits of these experiences, including increased independence, specialized skill development, deeper understanding of community dynamics, and exposure to diverse teaching contexts.
Challenges faced by pre-service teachers in these areas are also addressed, including housing, financial concerns, and the need for more contextual knowledge in initial teacher education programs. Marnie emphasizes the importance of self-care and well-being during these experiences, with support from family, friends, and the university playing a crucial role.
The episode concludes with Marnie's top tip for pre-service teachers considering regional, rural, or remote experiences: "You will never ever know if you never ever go." She encourages listeners to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the opportunity to develop new skills, see unfamiliar places, and experience diverse opportunities.
Links you may be interested in:
The Rural, Remote and Metropolitan Area (RRMA) classification divides Australia metropolitan, rural and remote zones. Read about the RRMA zones, how to use them and how to search for them.
Teach in rural, regional and remote Western Australia (WA)
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