Urbis is seeking your assistance with an important research project on ‘Closing the Gap’ in Year 12 or equivalent attainment.
We are an independent social research company who has been commissioned by the Commonwealth Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations to develop case studies which showcase good practice in implementing initiatives that work toward ‘Closing the Gap’ in Year 12 or equivalent attainment for Indigenous young people.
We need your help
We are seeking your assistance (and from others throughout the country) in suggesting up to six initiatives running in your region which demonstrate good practice in ‘Closing the Gap’ in Year 12 or equivalent attainment.
From the pool of nominated projects, nineteen will then have case studies prepared which highlight their good practice elements, including evidence of an increase in Indigenous students’ Year 12 or equivalent attainment, and how this is being achieved. The 19 will demonstrate a range of different approaches and contexts.
Why is this important?
This is an important opportunity for you to showcase successful initiatives that are being developed and implemented in your region and to share good practice learnings across the sector. It is anticipated that the case studies and learnings from these will be made publically available on the DEEWR website, subject to the initiatives’ consent.
What we’re looking for in a good practice case study
We have identified, from the literature, a number of key indicators of good practice, which influence Indigenous students’ educational experience and the likelihood of them completing secondary education. The key factor for inclusion as a case study is that the initiative has demonstrated success in increasing Indigenous students’ attainment of Year 12 or an equivalent qualification (with data demonstrating these successes).
The initiatives may involve one or more of the following, or indeed, other approaches:
- an increase in assistance for students at key transition points (eg Year 6-7, Year 10 -11)
- improvement in the quality and access to the school environment
cooperative teaching-learning methods and proactive classroom management
intervention and assistance for those falling behind in academic performance
- provision of extra-curricular activities which encourage students at risk of absenteeism
- professional development for staff to raise awareness of Indigenous culture and their contemporary lifestyle
- promotion of partnerships with schools, families and other learning institutions
- prevention programs which equip students to manage emotions and interpersonal situations more effectively.
Next steps
If you know of one or more initiatives that demonstrate good practice in ‘Closing the Gap’ in Year 12 or equivalent attainment, we want to hear from you!
As the case studies are to be completed by May, we would be most grateful to have your response by Friday, 8 April 2011.
For any questions please contact Benita Power at Urbis on (02) 8233 9930 or bpower@urbis.com.au.
Thank you for your assistance with this project. Your contribution is greatly valued.
Regards
Benita Power
Senior Consultant - Social Policy
In office Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday
Urbis
Australia Asia Middle East
direct 02 8233 9930 mobile 0405 325 207
office 02 8233 9900 fax 02 8233 9966
LEVEL 21 | 321 KENT STREET | SYDNEY NSW 2000 | AUSTRALIA
www.urbis.com.au