Missions of Future Curricula for Realizing the Visions of Iranian Higher Education on the horizon, 2025

Abstract

Problem Statement: To Iranian policy makers,higher education plays a key role in realizing thecountry’s development visions. This has led tothe mapping of visions of higher education inupstream resources. In this regard, curriculum isan essential tool for higher education to fulfil itsfunctions optimally. However, despite itssignificance, the clarification of the missions offuture curricula is almost entirely neglected inIran as the subject of research. Purpose of Study:This study aimed to clarify the missions of futurecurricula of Iranian higher education based on the visions of the country’s higher education on the horizon of 2025 (Iran’s 20-Year VisionPlan). Research Methods: The present research was developmental in terms of purpose, andwas conducted through a combined exploratory method in the academic year 2014-15. Thequalitative method was used to analyse the qualitative content of the upstream resources (e.g.,artefacts and policy documents) as well as interviews with 14 experts from higher education.In addition, the quantitative method was used to collect data from 338 faculty members andPhD students. In this research, the data obtained from qualitative content analysis of theinterviews was used to build the questionnaire. Findings: Findings indicated that theemphasis on research and technological functions, alongside that of education and service,pursues the goal of translating the knowledge acquired in the country into product. The resultsalso revealed that, the approach to future curricula is society-oriented, and the accountabilityto the society should be at the centre of strategies of curriculum development. Implicationsfor Research and Practice: The present study emphasized making Iranian universities moremission-oriented and aligned with the realization of higher education perspectives as well asthe realization of sustainable development through following the established missions for thecurriculum.