Visibility and representation of rural schools in the online Spanish press

Abstract

ABSTRACT The online press is a platform that helps to communicate the advantages of rural schools and to highlight the needs and grievances of the educational community. The aim of this article is to analyse the treatment of information about rural schools in 100 articles (2020–2021) published in the online Spanish press. A mixed methodology was employed to combine qualitative documentary analysis (source, approach, topic and the emotions and/or feelings expressed) and quantitative statistical analysis. Predominantly, the articles give a voice to the educational community, revealing the image of rural schools presented is positive. The Spanish press highlights rural schools’ advantages, as well as demand more support for the institutional representatives in order to guarantee the existence of rural schools. Overall, findings contribute to global research investigating the role of the online press related to rural schools and education.