Agricultural education
Bentolhoda Ramezanzadeh; hamidreza arasteh; kamran Mohammadkhani; abassali Motalabi
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to develop an educational planning model for the agricultural value chain of citrus orchards in northern Iran. This is a mixed-methods research (qualitative and quantitative), with the qualitative phase based on the Grounded Theory approach. The qualitative study population ...
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The aim of the present study was to develop an educational planning model for the agricultural value chain of citrus orchards in northern Iran. This is a mixed-methods research (qualitative and quantitative), with the qualitative phase based on the Grounded Theory approach. The qualitative study population consisted of experts, including faculty members from the Agricultural Research, Education, and Extension Organization. The quantitative phase involved managers, staff of orchards, producers, and farmers. For the quantitative section, convenience sampling was used, and Cochran’s formula was applied to determine the sample size. Data collection methods included semi-structured interviews in the qualitative phase and a researcher-designed questionnaire in the quantitative phase, with a total of 278 completed questionnaires collected. Data analysis was conducted using MAXQDA 2020 for the qualitative part. For the quantitative part, confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess the validity of the questionnaire, and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with the SmartPLS 3 software was applied to analyze the research questions. Findings indicated that the path coefficient between strategies and outcomes was 0.781 with a p-value of 0.000, which is less than 0.01, indicating significance. The path coefficient between contextual conditions and strategies was 0.175; between causal conditions and the core phenomenon was 0.864; between intervening conditions and strategies was 0.220; and between the core phenomenon and strategies was 0.531. The results showed that the components of the proposed implementation model have a significant and positive impact on one another, and the overall model demonstrates a good fit.
Agricultural education
Heydar Sawadi Poor; Seyed Mohammad Javad Sobhani; Masoud Baradaran
Abstract
Despite the critical importance of agriculture in ensuring food security and sustainable development, there is significant concern regarding the cultivation of an entrepreneurial mindset among the young generation engaged in this sector—particularly in regions characterized by unique socio-economic ...
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Despite the critical importance of agriculture in ensuring food security and sustainable development, there is significant concern regarding the cultivation of an entrepreneurial mindset among the young generation engaged in this sector—particularly in regions characterized by unique socio-economic conditions, such as Khuzestan Province. Accordingly, this causal-correlational study, employing a mixed-methods research design, investigates the relationships among individual skills; self-efficacy; learning environment, and entrepreneurial intention among students of agricultural vocational high schools in Khuzestan Province during the 2024–2025 academic year. The statistical population comprised 2,476 students from 13 agricultural vocational schools across the province’s counties; using Cochran’s formula, a sample of 385 students was selected via cluster sampling. The research instrument was a five-point Likert-scale questionnaire. Its face validity was confirmed through expert consultation with specialists in agricultural extension and education. Convergent validity was established by calculating factor loadings and Average Variance Extracted, while discriminant validity was verified using both the Fornell-Larcker criterion and the HTMT index. Reliability was assessed using Composite Reliability and Ordinal Theta coefficient, both yielding acceptable values. Collected data were processed and analyzed using descriptive statistics, the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test, and PLS-SEM in SPSS and SmartPLS software. SEM results revealed that all individual skills exert a positive and statistically significant effect on self-efficacy. Furthermore, both self-efficacy and the learning environment significantly influenced entrepreneurial intention. However, the direct effect of the learning environment on self-efficacy was not statistically significant. Findings indicate that entrepreneurial intention among agricultural students stems from a complex interplay between individual and environmental factors.
Agricultural education
Mohammad Sharif Sharifzadeh; Gholamhossein Abdollahzadeh
Abstract
This applied research aimed to assess the strategic context of international student recruitment at Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. Initially, a review of relevant trans-university and intra-university documents was conducted. Consequently, 34 external factors were identified, ...
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This applied research aimed to assess the strategic context of international student recruitment at Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. Initially, a review of relevant trans-university and intra-university documents was conducted. Consequently, 34 external factors were identified, comprising 16 opportunities and 18 threats, alongside 41 internal factors, which included 18 strengths and 23 weaknesses. In the subsequent phase, the insights garnered from the initial stage were assembled into a questionnaire designed for evaluating and formulating strategies rooted in the SWOT analytical framework and the assessment matrix for strategic situations and actions. The statistical population for this phase encompassed 200 university faculty members, from which 132 were randomly chosen via stratified sampling. The results of the SWOT analysis indicated that the overall score for internal factors was 2.623 and 3.164, while the external factors scored 2.381 and 3.361, respectively. The findings suggest that the strategies for attracting international students largely align with defensive measures. Therefore, it is imperative for the university to first address its weaknesses, followed by alleviating threats by leveraging its existing strengths and opportunities. Moreover, through the application of focus group discussions, four defensive strategic goals were established and prioritized, namely: 1- Enhancing institutional, scientific, and research capabilities to attract international students; 2- Fostering comprehensive development in the university’s international collaboration; 3- Advancing curricular and educational quality with a global perspective; and 4- Elevating support services and the overall academic experience for international students.
Agricultural education
Bahman Khosravipour; Moslem Savari; Seyyed Jafar Nejat
Abstract
Facing the unprecedented challenges of climate change, this research aimed to identify and prioritize the drivers for developing climate change education within Iran's agricultural higher education system. The study employed a mixed-methods design, was applied in its purpose, and exploratory in ...
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Facing the unprecedented challenges of climate change, this research aimed to identify and prioritize the drivers for developing climate change education within Iran's agricultural higher education system. The study employed a mixed-methods design, was applied in its purpose, and exploratory in approach. Using a combined qualitative-quantitative approach within a futures studies framework, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with faculty members and analyzed using thematic analysis, resulting in the extraction of 40 basic themes, 23 organizing themes, and 8 global themes. In the quantitative phase, using MICMAC structural analysis and a survey of 15 experts, the eight drivers identified in the previous phase were prioritized and analyzed into four categories: strategic, effective, independent, and dependent. The findings indicate the stability of the climate change education system and identify "Education and Human Resource Development" as the most crucial strategic driver. Effective drivers included "Governance and Institutional Structure," "Continuous Evaluation and Quality Assurance of Education," "Educational Equity," "Educational Content and Curriculum," and "Foresight and Sustainable Development." The "Interaction and Communication" driver was classified as an independent variable, while "Research and Innovation" was categorized as a dependent variable. These results emphasize the necessity of adopting a systematic and comprehensive approach that simultaneously focuses on empowering human resources, improving governance and quality structures, and strengthening the connection between education, research, and society. This will enable climate change education to fulfill its role in building agricultural resilience and sustainability.
Agricultural education
SHAHRAM MOGHADDAS FARIMANI; Maryam Mahmoodi; Roghayeh Seifili
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors of academic success or failure of male and female students in the agricultural secondary high schools. The type of this quantitative research was a survey type and the statistical population of this study was male and female students studying in ...
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The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors of academic success or failure of male and female students in the agricultural secondary high schools. The type of this quantitative research was a survey type and the statistical population of this study was male and female students studying in agricultural high schools affiliated with the Ministry of Agricultural Jihad in the eleventh and twelfth grades in the provinces of iran. The sample size of students in this study was determined using the sampling table, which was 184 people who were surveyed through random sampling. The reliability of the research instrument using Cronbach's alpha method for the questionnaire measuring the level of academic success/failure of eleventh and twelfth grade students was determined to be 0.87 and to determine validity, face validity .The results showed that the factors affecting the academic success of students in the agricultural colleges studied were eleven factors included: familiarity with the correct study method, teaching methods and teachers' attention, attitude of the conservatory officials, family and mental peace, interest in the field of study, having internal anxiety, influence of those around them, volume of homework, mental ability, amenities and access, and career future can be categorized.the results indicate that the variables of the previous year's grade point average, father's education level, future career, familiarity with the correct study method, teaching method and teachers' attention, and interest in the field of study were variables that predicted the academic success of students in the agricultural conservatories studied.
Agricultural education
Masoumeh Taghibaygi; Masoud Baradran; Amirhossein Alibaygi
Abstract
The goal of the present study was to design a model for institutionalizing metacognition in Iran's higher agricultural education system utilizing using three phases of the delphi methodThe research approach was qualitative, applied in terms of purpose, and exploratoryThe research community consisted ...
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The goal of the present study was to design a model for institutionalizing metacognition in Iran's higher agricultural education system utilizing using three phases of the delphi methodThe research approach was qualitative, applied in terms of purpose, and exploratoryThe research community consisted of metacognitive experts, from whom data was collected using the snowball method and chain referral with 13 individuals. A group of professionals also examined and verified the legitimacy of the surveys. The study's findings helped to establish the seven major elements of the agricultural higher education system, as well as the criteria for determining whether or not they were present. To create a model for institutionalizing metacognition in the agricultural higher education system, we must first identify each component and then identify indicators for each criterion (teacher duties with 12). 3 indicators of post-teaching activity, 18 indicators of in-teaching activity, and 3 indicators of pre-teaching activity; learning with 36 indicators of behavioral skills linked to metacognition; educational management and in-service training courses with 6 indicators of faculty empowerment and 4 indicators of attention to metacognition; educational planning with 5 performance criteria curriculum with four indicators of participatory criteria and four indicators of justification criteria; learning environment with five indicators of motivational criteria and four indicators of strategies; techniques of facilitation and interaction; evaluation methodologies using two indicators of participatory and seven indicators oThe desired model, which may be viewed as the foundation for institutionalizing the metacognition theory, was ultimately created using the derived elements, criteria, and indicators.
Agricultural education
moslem aghaei
Abstract
This study addresses the gap between university education and the actual needs of the agricultural sector, reflected in weak university–industry collaboration and misaligned curricula. Aiming to design and explain a model for enhancing agricultural engineering education, the research adopted an exploratory ...
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This study addresses the gap between university education and the actual needs of the agricultural sector, reflected in weak university–industry collaboration and misaligned curricula. Aiming to design and explain a model for enhancing agricultural engineering education, the research adopted an exploratory mixed-methods approach. In the qualitative phase, document analysis and semi-structured interviews with 14 experts were conducted, and data were analyzed using thematic analysis and Fuzzy Cognitive Mapping. In the quantitative phase, a questionnaire was developed based on the qualitative model, with its validity confirmed through confirmatory factor analysis (AVE > 0.5) and its reliability verified via composite reliability, Cronbach’s alpha, and ordinal theta (all > 0.7). Using a Likert scale, data were gathered from 385 faculty members selected from a population of 3,000 through proportional random sampling. The qualitative findings identified 11 main and 45 subthemes, and the final model showed good fit, with the most influential factors being improvements in practical and skill-based courses and faculty development, with effect sizes of 4.72 and 3.28. The study recommends strengthening systematic university–agriculture sector linkages and revising curricula to align with real-world needs
Agricultural education
abolfazl kazemi; Marzieh Karimi; amir fatehi gibi
Abstract
Expert systems are designed to make expert-level knowledge accessible to non-experts by simulating human thinking and decision-making processes. These systems aim to replicate the reasoning patterns of specialists and bring computer-based performance closer to that of human experts. In recent years, ...
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Expert systems are designed to make expert-level knowledge accessible to non-experts by simulating human thinking and decision-making processes. These systems aim to replicate the reasoning patterns of specialists and bring computer-based performance closer to that of human experts. In recent years, a wide range of expert systems have been developed worldwide for various agricultural applications. The availability of low-cost computers, agricultural knowledge, and information technology has driven this trend. This paper presents the design of an expert system intended to support decision-making among orchardists. The knowledge base was developed using information gathered from literature and domain experts, and was encoded into a set of IF-THEN rules. The system was then evaluated in collaboration with agricultural specialists. Additionally, the designed expert system serves as an effective educational tool for farmers and agricultural students by providing accurate and up-to-date information on pests affecting pome fruit trees. It enables users to learn practical methods of pest identification and control, enhances their knowledge and professional skills, and supports both formal education and self-directed learning in agricultural training contexts.
Agricultural education
Masoud Samian; Mousa Aazami; Reza Bahramloo
Abstract
The main goal of this research is to investigate the factors affecting the adoption of optimal cropping patterns for sustainable agricultural development. The present study is applied in terms of purpose and paradigm, it is a mixed research (qualitative-quantitative) with an exploratory approach. In ...
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The main goal of this research is to investigate the factors affecting the adoption of optimal cropping patterns for sustainable agricultural development. The present study is applied in terms of purpose and paradigm, it is a mixed research (qualitative-quantitative) with an exploratory approach. In the first stage, in order to identify and extract the factors affecting the adoption of the optimal cultivation pattern in line with the sustainable development of the agricultural sector, 18 semi-structured interviews were conducted with experts in this field using a purposive sampling method and considering the theoretical saturation index. After conducting interviews using content analysis method, five factors were identified: economic, social, political and institutional, environmental, and educational and extension. In the second stage, the fuzzy Delphi technique was used to achieve group agreement among the experts. The results of the study showed that the highest level of agreement among experts at this stage regarding each of the economic, social, political and institutional, environmental, and promotional and educational factors affecting the acceptance of the optimal cultivation pattern in line with the sustainable development of the agricultural sector was related to increasing the income from changing the cultivation pattern for farmers (S=0.83), building trust among farmers to accept the proposed cultivation pattern (S=0.85), determining a guaranteed price for products resulting from the new cultivation pattern (S=0.83), saving (reducing water consumption) in water consumption in the proposed cultivation pattern (S=0.80), and using model and demonstration farms to familiarize farmers (S=0.82)
Agricultural education
Sajedesadat i Hosseini Gooshk; Enayat Abbasi; Shahram Moghaddas Farimani
Abstract
Identifying factors that affect agricultural students' practical skills acquisition is essential for enhancing educational quality and ensuring workforce readiness. This study focused on analyzing the factors influencing employment skills acquisition among medicinal plant students in agricultural secondary ...
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Identifying factors that affect agricultural students' practical skills acquisition is essential for enhancing educational quality and ensuring workforce readiness. This study focused on analyzing the factors influencing employment skills acquisition among medicinal plant students in agricultural secondary schools. Conducted in 2024, the research employed a quantitative, causal-comparative approach with a population of 390 students across various provinces in Iran. A questionnaire based on educational standards for medicinal plants was the primary data collection tool, with 220 responses analyzed. The questionnaire's validity was confirmed by agricultural education experts, and its reliability was strong, indicated by Cronbach's alpha ranging from 0.93 to 0.98. Results revealed a significant positive relationship between students' interest in medicinal plants and job skills acquisition, while variables such as place of birth, agricultural background, and GPA showed no impact. A notable difference in skill acquisition levels was found between male and female students. Regression analysis indicated that internship, interest in the field, and gender accounted for 48.2% of the variance in employment skills. Recommendations include enhancing collaboration between educational institutions and agricultural ministries, prioritizing practical lessons and internships, and organizing workshops to boost student interest, which are crucial for improving employment skills acquisition rates among students.
Agricultural education
asghar bagheri; Ayyub Nemati; Naier Emami
Abstract
Agricultural extension has faced challenges over its decades of operation. ،o address them, a new extension system has been implemented since 2016, now known as current extension system. This study examines zoning system experts' opinions IN Ardabil province regarding the effectiveness, barriers, and ...
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Agricultural extension has faced challenges over its decades of operation. ،o address them, a new extension system has been implemented since 2016, now known as current extension system. This study examines zoning system experts' opinions IN Ardabil province regarding the effectiveness, barriers, and strategies for ITS development. It is an applied-descriptive study conducted using a cross-sectional survey. The statistical population waszoning experts (N=173). The sample size was set at 108 experts. The instrument was a researcher-made questionnaire consisting effectiveness indicators, barriers and strategies for the development of the extension system. The questionnaire was validated by faculty members and extension experts. Its reliability was assessed using a sample of 30 experts. The alpha values were above 0.7, which indicates acceptable reliability. The results showed that experts evaluated the new extension system as average to weak in achieving its goals in various dimensions. The experts gave scores for all effectiveness indicators (ranging from 1-5) as follows: agricultural production areas (2.86), status of farmer participation (2.55), employment of experts in the areas (2.39), organizational communication (2.27), evaluation system (2.33), budget and financial resources (2.21), equipment and facilities (1.92), and administrative laws and regulations (1.86). Based on the exploratory factor analysis, three obstacles to the development of the new system were extracted, including weak policy, underdevelopment and infrastructure, and two solutions for the development of this system, including regulation and policy development, and management and planning. Accordingly, it is necessary to clarify, revise and modify the policies related to the extension system.
Agricultural education
majidreza khodaverdian; peyman falsafi; Ahmad Yaghoubi Farani; Amir Afzali
Abstract
his study was conducted with the aim of investigating the impact of construction soldiers' activities on the performance of agricultural education and extension during its last period, i.e. 2018-2019. This study is considered applied in terms of type, and its research method is descriptive and analytical, ...
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his study was conducted with the aim of investigating the impact of construction soldiers' activities on the performance of agricultural education and extension during its last period, i.e. 2018-2019. This study is considered applied in terms of type, and its research method is descriptive and analytical, and the type of research is quantitative, and the data was collected through a researcher-made questionnaire. The ordinal theta rate of the total variables was 0.91. The statistical population included the first group of all construction soldiers, 303 people, the second group: heads of rural agricultural Jihad centers, 303 people, and the third group: agricultural users, 382 people. The sampling method used was stratified with proportional imputation, and the sample size was estimated using the Cochran formula. Descriptive statistics (mean, median, mode, range, maximum and minimum, variance and coefficient of variation cv) and inferential statistics also included one-sample t-test, Spearman's correlation coefficient, and structural equation analysis. From the perspective of the beneficiaries, the ability of construction workers to transfer issues and problems to the competent authorities has had the greatest impact on the dimensions of their effectiveness. Also, examining the relationship between the efficiency of construction workers and their success in different dimensions has had a positive and significant relationship. The results of structural equation modeling showed that the educational-consulting, technical-executive, supervisory and guidance activities of construction workers have had a positive effect on the performance of agricultural education and extension
Agricultural education
َAli Asadollahpour Kotenai; Majidreza Khodaverdian
Abstract
The purpose of this research was to analyze the implementation barriers of model sites in the production of healthy products. The research was quantitative, applied and non-experimental. The population was farmers active in the main production sites of healthy products in the three years ending in 1403. ...
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The purpose of this research was to analyze the implementation barriers of model sites in the production of healthy products. The research was quantitative, applied and non-experimental. The population was farmers active in the main production sites of healthy products in the three years ending in 1403. A two stage sampling method was used. The sample size was determined based on Cochran's formula (n=115). Stratified random sampling method with proportional assignment was used. The main data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire was obtained. As a result, the ordinal theta value for the researchvariables was 0.86 (ϴ=0.86). SPSS26 and Lisrel7.8 software were used for data analysis. Based on the results of this study, 26 variables were identified as implementation barriers. The variables of low awareness of farmers about the effectiveness of model sites in producing healthy crops and farmers' tendency to use fertilizers indiscriminately were of the highest and lowest importance, respectively. Using the statistical method of exploratory factor analysis, these variables were summarized into three factors: educational and attitudinal, managerial and executive, and policy-making and support. In total, the contribution of these three factors explained about 74.6 percent of the total variance of the implementation barriers of these sites. Finally, using confirmatory factor analysis, the validity and robustness of the factor structure of the observed variables were tested and confirmed.
Agricultural education
Fahimeh Zahedi; Ali Shams
Abstract
The environment, as the fundamental basis of life for all living organisms, has been profoundly impacted by human activities, highlighting the critical need for reevaluating the attitudes and behaviors of future generations. University students, as future leaders and decision-makers, can play a pivotal ...
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The environment, as the fundamental basis of life for all living organisms, has been profoundly impacted by human activities, highlighting the critical need for reevaluating the attitudes and behaviors of future generations. University students, as future leaders and decision-makers, can play a pivotal role in environmental conservation. This descriptive-correlational study aimed to examine the relationship between environmental knowledge and attitudes among university students in Zanjan Province, Iran. The statistical population included all students enrolled in universities across Zanjan Province during the 2023–2024 academic year. Using Cochran’s sampling formula, a sample size of 380 students was determined, and participants were selected via multistage random sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire, with items adapted from validated domestic and international studies. Content validity was confirmed by expert review, and reliability was established using Cronbach’s alpha coefficients (0.81 for knowledge and 0.79 for attitude). Findings revealed that 79.7% of students exhibited a high level of environmental knowledge, while 59.7% held positive environmental attitudes. Pearson’s correlation analysis indicated a significant positive relationship (r = 0.429) between environmental knowledge and attitudes. Based on the results, implementing targeted educational programs to enhance students’ environmental knowledge and attitudes is strongly recommended
Agricultural education
Fatemeh Oskuhi; Hamid Movahed Mohammadi; Ahmad Rarezvanfar; amir alambaigi
Abstract
The entrepreneurial ecosystem within universities is crucial for entrepreneurial activities as it not only acts as a lubricant to accelerate the commercialization of knowledge but also provides a framework for maintaining sustainable development in university entrepreneurship and contributes to its dynamism. ...
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The entrepreneurial ecosystem within universities is crucial for entrepreneurial activities as it not only acts as a lubricant to accelerate the commercialization of knowledge but also provides a framework for maintaining sustainable development in university entrepreneurship and contributes to its dynamism. This research aims to investigate the importance of networking within the university entrepreneurial ecosystem. Our perspective is applied, focusing on identifying and analyzing the relationships between educational groups and other related educational groups/organizations, both intra-group and inter-group, as well as external to the university, to facilitate the transition from idea to market. In this context, eight expert faculty members with technology or innovation ownership or relevant experience (key academic informants) were selected based on their expertise in entrepreneurship and innovation. The research tools included a semi-structured questionnaire and interviews. The interviews were designed around six main axes covering topics such as communication networks, challenges in technology commercialization, and intra-group and inter-group transactions. The analysis of the social networks of educational groups, using UCINET software, led to the examination of the primary communication networks within educational groups to achieve technology/innovation. According to the findings from the network analysis, the structure of the university entrepreneurial ecosystem follows a distinctive relational pattern, where key network indicators highlight the vital roles of specific educational groups and intermediary institutions. At the institutional level, the Entrepreneurship Faculty and the Science and Technology Park have effectively acted as knowledge brokers, creating a significant bridge between academic actors and market sectors. From the perspective of internal cohesion, network density indicates the existence of strong collaborative infrastructures within the ecosystem, although this indicator simultaneously reveals a structural challenge due to weak connections with the fields of humanities (especially economics and agricultural promotion). Therefore, the effectiveness of this ecosystem is based on a triangular synergy: specialized academic cores as engines for technology production, interdisciplinary collaborations as lubricants for developing integrated solutions, and institutional-industrial support (including the Ministry of Agriculture, the Science and Technology Park, and the Iranian Plant Pathology Society) facilitating the transition from laboratory to market, enabling the sustainable transformation of innovative ideas into commercialized products in the agricultural sector.
Agricultural education
sheida Yousefi Borhani; Seyd mahdi mirdamadi
Abstract
The current study aimed to investigate the training needs of CEOs and members of agricultural pro-duction cooperatives in Ilam and Khuzestan provinces using the Borich model and quadrant analysis in 2023. The statistical population of this study included 749 managing directors and members of agricultural ...
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The current study aimed to investigate the training needs of CEOs and members of agricultural pro-duction cooperatives in Ilam and Khuzestan provinces using the Borich model and quadrant analysis in 2023. The statistical population of this study included 749 managing directors and members of agricultural production cooperatives and 51 managers of the National Rural Cooperative Organization. The data collection tool was a questionnaire based on the Borich model. The validity of the research tool was confirmed using the opinions of experts in the Rural Cooperative Organization's Education Office. Its diagnostic validity and composite reliability were achieved by estimating the measurement model and after applying technical opinions and a composite theta of above 0.7. First, the training needs were determined from the perspective of managing directors. Then, based on the quadrant analysis and the agreement of the views of the CEOs and experts in the field, general training courses on transaction regulations, financial management in production cooperatives, and specialized training courses on the principles of equipping and integrating land, familiarity with modern irrigation networks and systems, familiarity with water laws and regulations, the law and executive regulations on cooperative production, the basics of smart agriculture, and fair water distribution were determined as priority training courses. Considering the similarity of the two models, it can be concluded that there is agreement between the experts, CEOs, and members of production cooperatives on training priorities.
Agricultural education
zahra athari; Behrooz Moradi
Abstract
Despite the significant importance of natural resources in sustaining human life, the training of the protection unit force, has not aligned with their educational needs as it should. Therefore the purpose of this descriptive – analytical research was to investigate the educational needs of the ...
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Despite the significant importance of natural resources in sustaining human life, the training of the protection unit force, has not aligned with their educational needs as it should. Therefore the purpose of this descriptive – analytical research was to investigate the educational needs of the protection unit forces of the General Directorate of Natural Resources and Watershed Management of Kermanshah Province using the Borich needs assessment model. The research population consisted of the protection unit forces of the General Directorate of Natural Resources and Watershed Management in Kermanshah Province (N=112), and ultimately, 105 questionnaires were completed. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire. The ordinal coefficient theta (Ө=0.86) and a panel of experts were used to establish its reliability and validity, respectively. Based on the results, the educational needs of the protection unit force in natural resources and watershed management were prioritized as follows: familiarity with GIS software, understanding the rules of criminal procedure and legal claims, and knowledge of laws regarding the carrying of weapons. Exploratory factor analysis revealed that the importance of technical-specialized needs, legal needs, protective-supportive needs, fire prevention and extinguishing needs, and Phytomedicine needs accounted for approximately 79 percent of the variance related to the training needs of the protection unit forces. The results achieved from ordinal regression method indicated that 32 percent of probability criterion variable is explained by variables of age and work history. Training courses on map reading skills and the optimal use of GIS and GPS should be prioritized.
Agricultural education
abdolrahim gheyassi; amir Alambeigi
Abstract
Identifying the details of the role of social support from agricultural academic staff on the job search behavior of agricultural students is a scientific necessity. Accordingly, the main purpose of this study was to investigate the role of social support from academic staff of agricultural higher education ...
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Identifying the details of the role of social support from agricultural academic staff on the job search behavior of agricultural students is a scientific necessity. Accordingly, the main purpose of this study was to investigate the role of social support from academic staff of agricultural higher education institutions on the job search behavior of agricultural students. Fourth-year undergraduate students of all agricultural fields in public universities constituted the statistical population of this study. 384 students from ten universities were selected as the statistical sample of the study using the inverse square root method and two-stage sampling method. After designing and confirming face validity, construct validity (AVE = 0.54-0.79), reliability (θ= 0.79-0.90), and composite reliability (CR<0.88-0.92), the research questionnaire was distributed among the respondents. The dominant statistical method was structural equation modeling. The results showed that social support from agricultural academic staff is effective in improving the job search behavior of agricultural students. The results also showed that psychological capital partially mediates the effect of social support on students' job search behavior. However, according to the results obtained, the supportive role of academic staff of higher education institutions in strengthening students' psychological capital is nonlinear. More social support from academic staff is suggested to improve job search behavior and the psychological capital of agricultural students.
Agricultural education
Masoud Rezaei
Abstract
The Covid-19 crisis has accelerated the digital transformation of education, and universities were forced to use online learning. The main goal of this research was to examine the pathology of online learning in agricultural higher education during the Corona era from the perspective of students at Arak ...
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The Covid-19 crisis has accelerated the digital transformation of education, and universities were forced to use online learning. The main goal of this research was to examine the pathology of online learning in agricultural higher education during the Corona era from the perspective of students at Arak University. This research was conducted using a survey method. The statistical population of the study was undergraduate agricultural students, 112 of whom were selected using simple random sampling. Validity and reliability of the research instrument were confirmed based on the evaluation of a panel of experts and ordinal alpha coefficient (α= 0.90-0.95) respectively. The research findings indicated that most students had access to the internet at home, and most of them attended the virtual class only with their mobile phones. The results of the internal analysis showed that the weaknesses (Mean Score=3.78) and strengths (Mean Score=3.28) of online learning were strong and intermediate in order. Furthermore, the results of the external analysis revealed that the opportunities (Mean Score=3.40) and threats (Mean Score=3.92) of online learning were intermediate and strong, respectively. Based on the results, four categories of strengths were at an intermediate level, and three categories of weaknesses were at a strong level. The findings also showed that two dimensions of virtual education opportunities were at a moderate level, and three dimensions of online learning threats were at a strong level. SWOT analysis also revealed that the defensive strategy was the main strategy for improving the virtual education in agriculture.
Agricultural education
somayeh negahdari; saeed talebi; farzad mohamadjani
Abstract
Organizational culture is recognized as a pivotal factor in ensuring the sustainability and growth. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of administrative culture on the quality of teaching and education, mediated by knowledge management, within the modern agricultural extension system. ...
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Organizational culture is recognized as a pivotal factor in ensuring the sustainability and growth. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of administrative culture on the quality of teaching and education, mediated by knowledge management, within the modern agricultural extension system. A causal-correlational research design was employed. The statistical population of the study comprised 2,247 individuals in the academic year 2023-2024, including: Agricultural extension agents affiliated with Jihad-e-Agriculture, Faculty members of agricultural research stations, Faculty members in agricultural disciplines from Islamic Azad University, Payame Noor University, and public universities in Fars Province. Using the simple random sampling method and Morgan’s table, 330 participants were selected as the study sample. The data collection tools included: Siraj’s Teaching Quality Assessment Scale (2002) with a reliability coefficient of 82%,Denison’s Organizational Culture Model (1995) and Cameron & Quinn’s Framework (2006) with a reliability coefficient of 85%,Taheri et al.’s (2022) Knowledge Management in the Modern Agricultural Extension System Scale with a reliability coefficient of 87%. All three instruments employ a 5-point Likert scale, and their validity was confirmed via confirmatory factor analysis. To investigate the impact of the variables, the path analysis method was employed. The research findings indicate that organizational culture exerts a direct positive impact on the components of knowledge management (production, distribution, processing) as well as the quality of teaching and learning. Furthermore, knowledge management components have a direct positive impact on teaching and educational quality.
Agricultural education
Amirreza Rezaei; Seyedeh Rana Mousavi Tazehkand; Hamid Movahed Mohammadi
Abstract
This study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of the impact of environmental literacy on sustainable and pro-environmental behaviors among students in agricultural vocational schools and green schools in Tehran Province. The research employed a correlational-causal design, with data collected from ...
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This study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of the impact of environmental literacy on sustainable and pro-environmental behaviors among students in agricultural vocational schools and green schools in Tehran Province. The research employed a correlational-causal design, with data collected from a statistical population of 998 students from green schools and 435 students from agricultural vocational schools across 4 green schools and 5 agricultural vocational schools. Using Morgan's table, a sample of 298 participants was selected, with 269 questionnaires ultimately included in the analysis. Convenience sampling was used, and data were gathered through a questionnaire validated by faculty members of Agricultural Extension and Education at the University of Tehran. Reliability was confirmed via a pilot study (Cronbach's α = 0.559–0.908). Data were analyzed in SPSS25 using descriptive and inferential statistics, including the Mann-Whitney U test. The results revealed significant differences (p < 0.01) between the two groups: Agricultural students exhibited significantly more favorable environmental behaviors; They demonstrated higher levels of environmental performance; They displayed stronger pro-environmental behavioral intentions; They held more pronounced environmental attitudes; However, green school students possessed greater subjective environmental knowledge. These findings suggest that while agricultural vocational education may more effectively foster practical pro-environmental actions, green schools excel in developing environmental awareness. The study highlights the need for balanced educational approaches that integrate both knowledge and behavioral components in sustainability education.
Agricultural education
Ehsan Sadeghizadeh; Seyed Mohammad Javad Sobhani; Masoumeh Forouzani
Abstract
The imperative to achieve food security, sustainable agricultural practices, and smart farming development has reinforced technology studies with a sociological perspective. The deep interconnection between agricultural development strategies and technological transformations highlights the need for ...
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The imperative to achieve food security, sustainable agricultural practices, and smart farming development has reinforced technology studies with a sociological perspective. The deep interconnection between agricultural development strategies and technological transformations highlights the need for novel tools and methodologies to assess technology in support of innovation and entrepreneurship. Accordingly, this qualitative study aimed to develop an innovative framework for evaluating smartphone-based applications in agricultural extension and education, based on balancing technology readiness level (TRL) and market readiness level (MRL). The research instrument was a questionnaire derived from the nine-cell TRL-MRL matrix, the face and content validity of which was confirmed by university experts in agricultural extension and education, as well as subject-matter specialists proficient in technology assessment. Additionally, the reliability of the tool was estimated to be satisfactory, with a Guttman’s reproducibility coefficient (CR ≥ 0.80). Using the TRL-MRL matrix, the performance of 16 domestic agricultural extension and education applications was evaluated through a survey of 15 experts. Based on the findings, the applications were classified into four main categories: (1) agricultural knowledge and communication media, (2) education, consulting, and agricultural input provision, (3) farm smartification and monitoring, and (4) artificial intelligence in plant, pest, and disease identification. This classification provides an overview of the current status and developmental potential of agricultural extension and education applications. Furthermore, the findings revealed that most of these applications are at the market readiness stage, indicating their potential for widespread adoption and societal penetration. The proposed comparative matrix, with its structured approach to technology management, can serve as a lever for implementing innovative solutions to the evolving challenges of the agricultural sector.
Agricultural education
KUBRA arkavazi; seyed ahmadreza Pishbin; Seyyed Yousef Hedjazi; amir alambaigi
Abstract
Attention to human capital is an undeniable necessity in order to achieve economic goals. Universities, as responsible institutions for developing and cultivating human capital needed by society, have a significant contribution to the knowledge-based economy. In this regard, universities have faced new ...
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Attention to human capital is an undeniable necessity in order to achieve economic goals. Universities, as responsible institutions for developing and cultivating human capital needed by society, have a significant contribution to the knowledge-based economy. In this regard, universities have faced new and challenging developments that leds a distinct concept called "Entrepreneurial University". Despite the importance of the agricultural sector in the country’s growth and development, no effective action has been taken in the field of Agricultural Entrepreneur University. Therefore, the current research has been taken with the aim of explaining the development mechanisms of entrepreneurial university in Iran's agricultural higher education. A quantitative-qualitative method was used to conduct this research. Statistical population of the study included all agricultural faculty members of Iran universities, 206 of them were selected using the Daniel's method in an accessible manner to collect the required data. In order to data collection, semi-structured interviews were used in the qualitative part and researcher-made questionnaires in the quantitative part. The results of entrepreneurial university dimensions’ analysis indicate the importance and role of eight dimensions including: "vision, mission, strategy", "effective management and organizational structure change", "stakeholders participation", "knowledge commercialization", "executive mechanisms", "entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial culture creation", "social and economic challenges" and "technology Requirements", in creating the foundation for development and realization of the agricultural entrepreneurial university
Agricultural education
yaghoobi Ahmad; Fatemeh Ali Tavakoli; Azar Safari Navid
Abstract
Electronic media and virtual social networks have become an inseparable part of human life, and their role in improving learning and changing individuals' behavior has attracted researchers' attention. This issue received particular emphasis during the COVID-19 pandemic to compensate for physical attendance ...
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Electronic media and virtual social networks have become an inseparable part of human life, and their role in improving learning and changing individuals' behavior has attracted researchers' attention. This issue received particular emphasis during the COVID-19 pandemic to compensate for physical attendance limitations in educational environments. Accordingly, this study employed the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to analyze the use of virtual social networks as a complement to virtual learning programs at the Faculty of Agriculture, Bu-Ali Sina University during this period. For data collection, the standardized Park (2009) questionnaire was used in electronic form after translation and verification of its validity and reliability. From among 780 undergraduate students, 160 were selected as the sample and examined. The collected data were processed using both SPSS and Smart PLS software. Correlation analysis revealed a positive and significant relationship (p < 0.05) between the two variables of 'perceived usefulness of social networks' and 'subjective norm' with students' attitudes and their behavioral intention to use social networks. Additionally, a positive and significant relationship was observed (p < 0.05) between students' attitudes toward social networks and their behavioral intention to use them. However, no significant relationship was found between the two variables of 'perceived ease of use' and 'access to networks' with the variables of attitude and behavioral intention. Evaluation of the research model using Smart PLS software showed that the employed model had relatively good overall fit, explaining 42% of the variance in behavioral intention to use social networks and 32% of the variance in students' attitudes toward using virtual social networks.
Agricultural education
Reza Movahedi; Soraya Moradi; Taraneh Sarami Froushani
Abstract
Rural women need empowerment in various dimensions., as an effective group in rural communities development. The present study aims to examine the educational empowerment of rural women and the educational, promotional, economic, and social factors affecting it in the context of sustainable agriculture, ...
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Rural women need empowerment in various dimensions., as an effective group in rural communities development. The present study aims to examine the educational empowerment of rural women and the educational, promotional, economic, and social factors affecting it in the context of sustainable agriculture, conducted in the year 2023. The statistical population studied consists of 2,054 rural women from 12 villages in Islamabad Gharb County, who are directly involved in agricultural activities. From those, 324 individuals were selected as the samples using Morgan's table during a simple random method. This applied research is correlational-causal and conducted through a survey using a questionnaire. The content validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by experts, and the average variance extracted (AVE) was validated at 0.613. The reliability of the questionnaire was measured based on ordinal Alpha (ranging from 0.75 to 0.93) and composite alpha (ranging from 0.78 to 0.94) through a pre-test process. Data analysis was performed using the statistical software SPSS Ver. 23, Smart PLS 3, and statistical methods like correlation and confirmatory factor analysis. The results of the extracted beta coefficients from path analysis based on the PLS output showed that economic factors, extension education factors, governmental and organizational factors, and social capital had the highest impact on the educational empowerment of rural women, with coefficients of 0.303, 0.280, 0.277, and 0.271, respectively. It needs to motivate rural women through workshops and supportive-motivational programs, encourage their self-organization, and enhance their knowledge and attitudes regarding sustainable agriculture and food security.
