Abstract

The spatial allocation of compulsory education resources in rural townships faces significant challenges that affect educational equity, quality, and accessibility. China’s rapid urbanization and rural revitalization strategies have intensified demands for optimized educational resource distribution while existing allocation systems remain inadequate. This research aimed to: (1) identify and validate essential components of spatial allocation of compulsory education resources in Guangxi townships, (2) assess current and desired states of resource allocation across seven key components, and (3) develop a comprehensive optimization model based on educational equity principles and systematic resource management. A three-phase sequential mixed-methods design was employed. Phase 1 validated seven resource allocation components through expert consultation (n=5). Phase 2 assessed current and desired states using surveys with 438 stakeholders from township schools. Phase 3 developed and validated an optimization model incorporating systematic needs analysis, strategic allocation planning, and continuous productivity monitoring. Seven primary resource components were identified: Material Resources, Financial Resources, Human Resources, Policy Support and Management Systems, Curriculum Resources, Social and Community Resources, and Technological and Informational Resources. Significant gaps existed between current allocation levels (X̅=3.48, medium level) and desired allocation levels (X̅=4.55, very high level), with priority needs index ranging from 0.207 to 0.254 across all resource components. Expert validation confirmed very high model suitability (X̅=4.65) and feasibility (X̅=4.20). This study provides the first comprehensive framework for optimizing spatial allocation of compulsory education resources in Chinese rural townships. The developed model offers a systematic, evidence-based approach combining equity principles with practical implementation strategies, demonstrating high suitability and feasibility for policy implementation.

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