Socio-Spatial Inequality in Education Facilities in the Concepción Metropolitan Area (Chile)

Abstract

In Concepción Metropolitan Area (CMA), the uneven geographical distribution of population, exacerbated by the recent spread of urban growth, has promoted a clear spatial inequity in the provision of quality educational facilities. The objective of this research is to systematically compare the 493 schools of existing educational opportunities in the CMA with the aim to evaluate the spatial equity in order to improve a most inclusive urban planning. Statistical and graphical analysis revealed that nearest units to the center of the metropolitan area (Concepción) had better conditions than the farthest with respect to students-teacher ratio, teaching quality and academic outcomes assessment. This center-periphery pattern shows clearly the challenges to be faced in the CMA with respect to equitable access to quality educational resources.