Spatial analysis approach in the trend of higher education development

The purpose of this paper was spatial analysis of higher education development trend in some indictors during 2005-10 (Forth development Plan). Research methodology in this study was descriptive -analytic. By using entropy index and quarters, higher education indicator development trend in 31 provinces was surveyed and scenographyed by utilization of Geographic Information System (GIS). The findings showed that Iranian higher education has grown quantitatively very well during these years But, the analysis of indicator's spatial distribution in Iran's provinces indicated that because of unrealistic determined quantitative goals and ignoring principles of regional planning over 60 % of provinces dont possess balanced distribution and many of the determined indicators in the Plan were only accomplished in privileged provinces or have been close to determined goals. Thus, even though the policy makers emphasize on non-centralized and sectorial planning, the inappropriate distribution of higher education facilities in country's geographical regions, has caused the accomplishment of equity oriented educational policies with serious challenges. Hereupon, it is recommended that higher education planners increasingly pay attention to the spatial analysis and land planning in order to identify inequalities and imbalances.