Challenges and Opportunities in the Introduction of a Tertiary Education Program in Regional South Australia: A Case Study

Abstract

This paper explores the implementation of a Bachelor of Education program in regional South Australia. Using a case study approach, this paper describes the site of implementation, with attention paid to the challenges regional locations experience in attracting and retaining suitably qualified staff. It will explore the program model and consider the challenges and opportunities associated with the implementation and sustainability. At the individual level, it has provided students with an additional study option that negates the costs and stresses of relocation. At an organisational and community level, there is benefit for local schools as the provision of students and future professionals, who already have demonstrated commitment to the region, may assist in reducing staff turnover. The model presented could be adapted to similar locations, and while it is not a panacea to address regional teaching staff shortages, it offers another educational model that can help alleviate the issue.

Tertiary Education - One of the Major Europe 2020 Objectives

“…A higher level of education of the workforce will accelerate economic prosperity [Ilić, et al, 2017]; other mention the vision of the updated Employment Strategy 2013-2020 as being defined as: ensure conditions and opportunities for improving the quality of the workforce and increasing employment in the economy of smart, sustainable and inclusive growth to raise living standards and promote social inclusion [Terziev, & Arabska, 2015]. Australian authors speak about challenges and opportunities in the introduction of a tertiary education program, but only as a case study [Harvey, & Walsh, 2018]. Other topics of interest in this field try to answer the question: how can we contribute to the subversion of gender normalcy in Physical Education and Sport Tertiary Education [Devis-Devis, et al, 2018].…”