Proceedings of the 'Narrowing the Gap: Addressing Educational Disadvantage' Conference: SiMERR National Conference, University of New England, Armidale NSW

The purpose 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. To achieve this purpose the SiMERR National Centre, located at the University of New England, comprises a team of professionals with extensive experience in science, ICT and mathematics education, expertise in many areas of student diversity, excellent administration and project management skills, and a successful track record in conducting large-scale research projects. In order to be a truly national centre, however, SiMERR Australia has established a Hub 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. Hub teams are also responsible for developing a network of researchers within their state or territory involved in Science, ICT and Mathematics education, and in aspects of student diversity in these subject areas.