EFFICIENCY ANALYSIS OF SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS IN ASSIUT CITY

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Research problem is summed-up in the phenomenon of random distribution of Elementary Schools in the Egyptian city. This is one of the most important phenomena affecting the urban structure of neighborhoods and residential areas in the existing Egyptian city. Other consequent problems by inequality in distribution of available educational services to city residents, and, hence, have led to a negative impact on the integration requirements of the urban structure for the city. This paper is aimed at conducting a detailed analysis of the methodology used in the process of spatial distribution of Elementary Schools in the existing Egyptian city. This has been achievedusing a realistic study of the problem in Assiut city in particular. In dealing with this problem, the paper has focused on the analysis of the efficiency of spatial distribution and the pattern of current spontaneous dispersion of these schools within the residential areas of the city of Assiut. Both analytical as well as descriptive approacheshave been used, where the present situation of Elementary Schools distribution in the city has been surveyed. In addition, interviews with officials representing relevant departments have been conducted, in order to verify information and data that have been deducted by the research. Research methodology has been employed to analyze current problems and the available potentials for development, and, accordingly, to define the needs that could achieve optimal spatial distribution of Elementary Schools in the city. Both surveying and analysis processes used have focused on measuring the extent of adoption of planning standards and management controls specific to the process of provision of Elementary Schools, to the spatial distribution of educational services, and to the role played in influencing the quality of the service provided. The research paper concluded with a set of results, which showed a defect in the application of planning standards and management controls pertinent to the determination of the distribution of this service. Results also showed that that defect has led also to a concentration of elementary schools in some areas, whilst other areas were left deprived. In addition, unequal quality of schools was found common as a result of the multiple providers and, hence, the diverse educational methods used in each case. The paper is concluded with a conceptual proposal aimed at achieving an optimal spatial distribution methodology for Elementary Schools in the existing Egyptian city, and in accordance with the planning principles and controls,whichoutlines clear features and policies for the distribution of elementary schools. Keywords: PlanningPrinciples;Elementary Schools;Educational Services;Residential Neighborhood; Spatial DistributionofServices;Assiut City