“That ICPA Qld continues to lobby the Department of Education (DoE) to write, develop and provide Curriculum Support Materials (CSMs) in printable, paper-based format across all primary Distance Education year levels and subjects to ensure equitable access to education for geographically isolated students when technology, internet connectivity, or live online access is unavailable.”
ICPA Qld acknowledges and appreciates that the DoE has established a CSM Working Group to develop English materials for Prep to Year 2. However, it is essential that this work is extended across all primary year levels, as students in upper primary face the same challenges and require equivalent support. In addition, as other subject areas are progressively transitioned to online delivery, appropriate printable materials must be developed and available prior to the withdrawal of existing resources.
Queensland distance education increasingly relies on digital platforms requiring reliable internet, devices, and live participation; however, many geographically isolated families face ongoing connectivity and technology challenges that disrupt learning.
Rural and remote families also operate within seasonal work cycles that limit availability during standard school hours. While digital learning offers benefits, the lack of structured, printable Independent Learning Materials reduces flexibility and disrupts continuity when technology fails or families cannot meet conventional timetables.
Without structured, printable Curriculum Support Materials, flexibility and continuity are reduced when technology fails or schedules conflict. Providing paper-based CSMs would support continuous, flexible learning and improve equitable access for geographically isolated students.
