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Purpose: The curriculum is a central element in any educational activity, and the present study aimed to design and validate an environmental education curriculum model for higher education based on the "Aker" approach. Methodology: This study used a mixed-methods approach, where the qualitative sample consisted of academic and organizational experts familiar with the research field, and the quantitative sample included curriculum specialists, textbook authors of the Ministry of Education, and environmental experts. The qualitative and quantitative research samples comprised 22 and 191 individuals, respectively, selected according to the principle of theoretical saturation through purposive non-random sampling and Cochran's formula with convenience non-random sampling. The research tools were semi-structured interviews and researcher-made questionnaires in the qualitative and quantitative sections, respectively, whose psychometric indices were confirmed. Data were analyzed using coding in Nvivo software and exploratory factor analysis and structural equation modeling in SPSS and Smart PLS software. Findings: The qualitative findings indicated that the environmental education curriculum model for higher education based on the "Aker" approach contained 87 concepts across 10 elements; namely, 13 concepts for program logic, 15 for program objectives, 13 for educational content, 7 for teaching and learning activities, 9 for instructor characteristics, 7 for educational materials and resources, 5 for educational space and setting, 8 for grouping, 4 for instructional time, and 6 for assessment. Additionally, the quantitative findings showed that the factor loadings, average variance extracted, and composite reliability of the elements were respectively higher than 0.40, 0.50, and 0.70. The fit of the environmental education curriculum model for higher education based on the "Aker" approach was appropriate, with all path coefficients being higher than 0.50 and significant at the 0.001 level. Conclusion: According to the environmental education curriculum model for higher education based on the "Aker" approach and its concepts, planning for the design and application of an environmental education curriculum is essential.

Purpose: This study aims to explore the professional development needs of rural teachers to identify targeted strategies that can enhance their professional growth and effectiveness. Methodology: This qualitative study involved 31 rural teachers, utilizing semi-structured interviews to gather data. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using NVivo software to ensure thematic accuracy and depth. Theoretical saturation was achieved to ensure comprehensive coverage of the topics discussed. The study's approach was grounded in qualitative methodologies, with an emphasis on capturing the lived experiences and insights of the participants. Findings: Four main themes were identified: Access to Resources, Professional Growth, Challenges and Barriers, and Suggested Improvements. Access to Resources highlighted issues like unreliable internet and inadequate professional materials. Professional Growth focused on the importance of collaborative learning and skill development. Challenges and Barriers included financial and geographic constraints, while Suggested Improvements called for policy reforms, infrastructure development, and community engagement to support rural teachers. Conclusion: The study highlights the complex challenges rural teachers face in accessing and benefiting from professional development opportunities. It suggests that tailored interventions are necessary to address these unique needs effectively. By focusing on specific improvements such as enhanced infrastructure, policy support, and community involvement, stakeholders can significantly impact the professional lives of rural teachers.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the policy-making processes for online education at the primary level, focusing on the objectives, content, strategies, resources, and assessment practices. It aimed to identify the challenges and opportunities within these policies to enhance the effectiveness of online education. Methodology: This cross-sectional survey study involved 384 educators, administrators, and policymakers in the primary education sector. Data were collected via a researcher-made questionnaire to gather comprehensive insights into the participants' perceptions of online education policies. The questionnaire was validated through a pilot study, and data analysis was conducted using SPSS and SMART-PLS for quantitative responses and thematic analysis for qualitative responses. Confirmatory factor analysis and Cronbach's alpha coefficients were utilized to assess the reliability and validity of the constructs within the questionnaire. Findings: The findings revealed a general consensus on the importance of clearly defined objectives, engaging content, and effective strategies for the successful implementation of online education policies. Challenges identified include the need for better technology infrastructure, financial resources, and professional development for educators. The analysis also highlighted the significance of affective and psychomotor domains in online education, which are often overlooked in policy making. Participants expressed a desire for more innovative and interactive online learning environments to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. Conclusion: The study concludes that while there are significant opportunities to enhance the quality and effectiveness of online education through policy improvements, there are also considerable challenges that need to be addressed. These include the integration of affective and psychomotor learning goals, the development of comprehensive support systems for educators, and the improvement of technology and financial infrastructures. Policymakers and educators must work collaboratively to refine online education policies, ensuring they are inclusive, effective, and capable of meeting the diverse needs of primary education students.

Purpose: One of the inherent duties of the Cultural and Social Affairs Department of Farhangian University is to extend the governance of cultural and social spheres across all dimensions of the university. In this regard, numerous and diverse plans and activities have been implemented in recent years. The aim of this article is to analyze the cultural and social activities conducted at the university level and to provide an optimal model in this context. Methodology: The Three-Branch Model was used as a theoretical framework. The method employed was mixed, comprising both qualitative and quantitative sections. The qualitative sample population included 30 cultural experts selected through purposive sampling. The quantitative sample population consisted of 194 active members of student organizations, chosen through stratified random sampling. Data collection techniques included in-depth interviews and questionnaires. Findings: The findings indicate that structural factors (0.195), behavioral factors (0.368), and contextual factors (0.312) play significant roles in the formation of issues and problems in cultural and social programs and activities. Additionally, the regression results show that 63% of the variance in the dependent variable is explained by these three variables: structural factors, contextual factors, and behavioral factors. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that the structural, behavioral, and contextual factors play significant roles in shaping the outcomes of cultural programs and activities at Farhangian University. This section discusses the implications of these results, drawing on relevant literature to highlight the broader context and potential strategies for enhancing the effectiveness of cultural programs in higher education.