A Study on the Disappearing Rural Primary Schools from a Social Work Perspective

Abstract

With the acceleration of urbanization and changes in demographic structure in China, a large number of rural primary schools have been consolidated or closed due to declining student enrollment, creating the social phenomenon of "disappearing rural primary schools." From a social work perspective, this paper reviews existing research on the adjustment of rural educational resources and the impact of school consolidation on rural communities. It analyzes, from multiple dimensions including psychological, environmental, cultural, and community development perspectives, the opportunities and challenges that the disappearance of rural primary schools presents for left-behind children, families, and rural communities. The paper aims to explore, through macro-level social work intervention strategies, how to preserve rural cultural heritage, safeguard children's welfare, and promote sustainable community development amidst the process of educational resource integration.