About SiMERR - Victoria

There is growing concern in Australia about the diminishing uptake of students into post compulsory science and mathematics courses. Coupled with this, the issue of student retention and student participation in higher education for regional and rural Australia, and the particular infrastructure and geographic disadvantages experienced by rural communities, is a widely canvassed issue. Together, these circumstances pose significant equity issues in regard to regional and rural communities.

Science, ICT and Mathematics Education for Rural and Regional Australia (SiMERR) is a national project funded by the Department of Transport and Regional Services, and administered through the University of New England.

The mission of SiMERR Australia is to provide a national forum for addressing issues relating to the key areas of science, ICT and mathematics education, particularly as they concern rural and regional communities. Through a combination of strategic research, network building and practical support, SiMERR Australia aims to identify the needs of geographically and professionally isolated teachers, and enhance their efforts to assist students to realise their academic potential in these subject areas.

Run out of a National Centre at UNE, SiMERR Australia involves hubs in each state and territory. These hubs work together with the SiMERR National Centre in establishing links with teachers, education providers and relevant professional and community organisations within their own state or territory, and identify research opportunities and priorities.

As the 'hub' institution in Victoria, Deakin is contracted to coordinate initiatives and sharing of research information with academics and schools.