“That ICPA Qld lobbies the Department of Education (DoE) to ensure that physical resources, including Independent Learning Materials (ILMs), continue to be an option for rural and remote Distance Education students.”
Printed resources and ILM's play a vital role in supporting the education of children living in rural and remote parts of Queensland. While digital learning is growing rapidly, it’s important to recognize that not all students have equal access to reliable internet, devices, or electricity — particularly in isolated communities. In these areas, printed materials and ILM's often remain the most dependable and accessible form of educational content, providing structural guidance for Home Tutors and parents to deliver learning content. Printed resources ensure that learning can continue without interruption, regardless of technological barriers or geographical location. Put simply, ILM's are a lifeline for learning in the bush, helping to make education fair and accessible for all. It is imperative that schools of distance education continue to provide rural and remote families the option of paper-based resources to educate their children.