Presenting a Model for Professional Citizenship Education at Islamic Azad University, Tehran Province

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to propose a model for professional citizenship education at Islamic Azad University, Tehran Province. The participants in this study consisted of experts and scholars affiliated with Islamic Azad University, all of whom were professionals in the field of higher education and specialized in topics related to the research subject. Participants held at least a master's degree, and the sample was selected using purposive chain sampling. The sample size reached 15 individuals, continuing until theoretical saturation was achieved. In addition to conducting a literature review and reviewing relevant upstream documents, data collection tools included semi-structured interviews in the fieldwork phase, which continued until theoretical saturation. For qualitative data analysis, thematic analysis was conducted using the Attride-Stirling framework. To assess reliability, Holsti's coefficient, Scott's Pi coefficient, Cohen's Kappa index, and Krippendorff's Alpha were used. The ATLAS.ti software was employed for thematic analysis. Based on the results of exploratory factor analysis, out of 164 existing indicators (items), 24 basic themes and 6 organizing themes were identified, leading to the recognition of basic, organizing, and global themes. The organizing themes included: educational planning for professional citizenship, educational infrastructure, the current educational status, facilitation of education, flourishing of professional citizenship education, and personal development. The model developed from this research provides individuals with the opportunity to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to enter the job market and advance their professional development as professional citizens through diverse and extensive educational programs. Furthermore, the results emphasize that incorporating ethical values and promoting social participation within the educational process cultivates responsible and active citizens who possess the competencies and skills required to address social issues and challenges.