Ali Entezari
Abstract
In this article inconveniences between virtual space (VS) and real space (RS) and its probable damages have been theoretically investigated. The main aim is to analyze effects of accustoming to virtual space mechanisms and rules of creation of consciousness and perception has on the relationship and ...
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In this article inconveniences between virtual space (VS) and real space (RS) and its probable damages have been theoretically investigated. The main aim is to analyze effects of accustoming to virtual space mechanisms and rules of creation of consciousness and perception has on the relationship and interactions in the real world. Mead’s “generalized others”, Habermas’s “communicational action” and Beck’s “risk society” has been reviewed in order to articulate the theoretical basis of the concept of “distressed communication”. It seems being drowned in virtual space and creation of virtual consciousness beside accustoming to rules and norms of virtual space has been conducted to some understanding disorders within real space. “Distressed communication” is more realized than “rational communication” in the era of hegemony of social media; the phenomenon that has resulted many damages on individual and group relationships. the problematic in here is just acting within the real on the basis and logic of virtual space. Computational error in sending message and meaningful action, being shocked by others’ reactions, expressing far desires as short-run aims are some of conceptual components of “distressed communication”. Besides holding contradictive statements, casual relationships, weakness in permanence of expressive identity, harmful and violent language are some of other components. The article should not be reckoned as nor pessimistic and neither optimistic toward virtual space. The main problematic of this article was how participants of unrest events at almost end of 2022 in Iran were very confident for overthrowing the political state, while acting as funny and fake revolutionaries. It seemed being drowned in virtual space such as acting in social media and playing virtual games have made them to believe in the logic of virtual space could be applied in the real space. Suffering from lack of rationality of acts, that this kind of transferring would have brought about for them is one of the reasons of necessity of explaining this situation. In order to access to an applicable concept, Meads “generalized others” specially the concepts related to “putting oneself in other shoes” and “definition of situation” were very close in order to explain the main problem of communication in the real world. It seems the actors who had experiencing drowning in the virtual space who we can name them “Actors Drowned in Virtual Space” or “ADVS” while have improved their ability to communicate in the virtual space (VS), have lost the logic of interaction in the real space (RS). Tensions between RS and VS has brought about a condition that Habermas “theory of action” specially “communicational reason” is far to be stabilized. More often this kind of tensions have resulted in irrational communication. Although the main target of Habermas was to describe the “reason” instead of “communication”, but it seems the reason is being ruined under this kind of tensions. Therefore according to the tensions between VS and RS, both “instrumental reason” as Weber suggested and “communicative reason” as Habermas suggests are far from reality of the current relationships. Within VS by governance mechanisms of the platform of social media besides the latent armies such as different group of oppositions whom partially were recently disgraced in Albania and the cost and benfits of having more followers in order to reflect more ads, talking about reason is more ironic than philosophical sophistaction. At the margin of the article Haberms, Giddens, Ulrich Beck and Zymunt Bauman task in order to theorize globalization and late modernity has been verified. Their commitment in order to find a refuge for modernity through the concepts of “communicational reason”, risk society, liquid modernity are mostly fantasies of the real events of the world. Since the theory and concept of globalization has been challenged by the concept of “polarization” and multipolar world by Entezari (2010) suggested, while some of Iranian scholars were very resistant to it, so many articles and books have been written in order to unveil the ideological context of defending modernity (for example: Dugin 2021؛ Abbas 2022؛ Amin 2006؛ Clegg 2009؛ Deitz et al 2009؛ Plagemann 2015؛ Dee 2015؛ Mitchell et al 2013؛ Stahl 2018؛ Woodley 2015؛ Hiro 2010؛ The Saker 2015؛ Singh 2020؛ Ohanyan & Broeers 2020؛ Hussain 2016؛ Diesen 2012؛ Engel & Ramos 2013؛ Cimbala 2017؛ Lesage et al 2016؛ Silvius 2016؛ Mori 2020). Under the polarization theoretical framework, the concept of “distressed communication” instead of “rational communication” could be better explained.
New Media Studies
morteza fazelimoghadam; Afsaneh Mozaffari; Hadi Khaniki
Abstract
Abstract:Today, the role and significance of media in informing and shaping public opinions are undeniable. Among various media types, social media, with the advancements in technology, equipment, volume, and methods, can have the most significant impact as conveyors and transmitters of messages in persuading ...
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Abstract:Today, the role and significance of media in informing and shaping public opinions are undeniable. Among various media types, social media, with the advancements in technology, equipment, volume, and methods, can have the most significant impact as conveyors and transmitters of messages in persuading public opinions. The present study aims to identify the components of the persuasion pattern in social media and adopts a qualitative research approach using the synthesis method. The statistical population in the first section includes all relevant articles on the subjects of "persuasion," "public opinions," and "social media" in domestic databases such as Magiran, Noormags, Civilica, Institute for Humanities and Cultural Studies, Iran Index, and international databases including Scopus, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, Springer, and Google Scholar from 2010 to 2023. The sample size for this section includes all documents and resources related to the subject, totaling 75 documents. Among these documents, 22 were ultimately selected for analysis after several screening stages based on title, abstract, and content. Data were collected using a study sheet, and a specialized qualitative coding method was employed for data analysis. The results indicate that the components of the persuasion pattern in social media consist of five main components (core concepts), namely: persuasion strategies, trust and honesty, audience-centricity, scarcity, and message characteristics. Based on the research findings, it is recommended that stakeholders, actors, and managers in the media field focus on building trust among audiences to persuade public opinions on social media. Furthermore, for the production of persuasive messages, elements such as honesty, credibility, attractiveness, and gaining audience trust should be considered, and appropriate persuasion strategies and techniques should be selected.Additionally, attention should be paid to the audience's needs and objectives in using social media, and non-repetitive and engaging messages should be produced and disseminated.Data were collected using a study sheet, and a specialized qualitative coding method was employed for data analysis. The results indicate that the components of the persuasion pattern in social media consist of five main components (core concepts), namely: persuasion strategies, trust and honesty, audience-centricity, scarcity, and message characteristics. Based on the research findings, it is recommended that stakeholders, actors, and managers in the media field focus on building trust among audiences to persuade public opinions on social media. Furthermore, for the production of persuasive messages, elements such as honesty, credibility, attractiveness, and gaining audience trust should be considered, and appropriate persuasion strategies and techniques should be selected.Additionally, attention should be paid to the audience's needs and objectives in using social media, and non-repetitive and engaging messages should be produced and disseminated.Data were collected using a study sheet, and a specialized qualitative coding method was employed for data analysis. The results indicate that the components of the persuasion pattern in social media consist of five main components (core concepts), namely: persuasion strategies, trust and honesty, audience-centricity, scarcity, and message characteristics. Based on the research findings, it is recommended that stakeholders, actors, and managers in the media field focus on building trust among audiences to persuade public opinions on social media. Furthermore, for the production of persuasive messages, elements such as honesty, credibility, attractiveness, and gaining audience trust should be considered, and appropriate persuasion strategies and techniques should be selected.Additionally, attention should be paid to the audience's needs and objectives in using social media, and non-repetitive and engaging messages should be produced and disseminated.Data were collected using a study sheet, and a specialized qualitative coding method was employed for data analysis. The results indicate that the components of the persuasion pattern in social media consist of five main components (core concepts), namely: persuasion strategies, trust and honesty, audience-centricity, scarcity, and message characteristics. Based on the research findings, it is recommended that stakeholders, actors, and managers in the media field focus on building trust among audiences to persuade public opinions on social media. Furthermore, for the production of persuasive messages, elements such as honesty, credibility, attractiveness, and gaining audience trust should be considered, and appropriate persuasion strategies and techniques should be selected.Additionally, attention should be paid to the audience's needs and objectives in using social media, and non-repetitive and engaging messages should be produced and disseminated.Keywords: Persuasion Components, Public Opinions, Social Media, Research synthesis
Amir Hossein Aghaei; alireza hatami; Datis Khajeheian
Abstract
In today's digital age, it is undeniable that internet penetration rates continue to rise, and social media's influence has transformed consumers into content creators. Brands and businesses recognize the opportunity to connect with their key stakeholders through social media to avoid potential risks. ...
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In today's digital age, it is undeniable that internet penetration rates continue to rise, and social media's influence has transformed consumers into content creators. Brands and businesses recognize the opportunity to connect with their key stakeholders through social media to avoid potential risks. The atmosphere of social media platforms and the ability to analyze audience engagement methods have become essential for brands to navigate this landscape successfully. Digikala, as the leading online retail platform in Iran, takes advantage of the potential of diverse social media channels to realize its objectives. Furthermore, the unique and general atmosphere predominant on Twitter, a microblogging platform, necessitates a nuanced understanding of user interaction. In light of these considerations, the present research aims to analyze the way in which the audience-customers engage with the Digikala brand on Twitter. The objective of the research is applied and exploratory in nature. A quantitative approach has been utilized, complemented by data mining and network analysis of social networks. The hashtag platform, a social media monitoring tool, has been utilized to collect and analyze data, specifically focusing on internet-sourced tweets. In the scope of this study, the initial step involved gathering tweets from Twitter users that contained keywords pertaining to Digikala. Following the analysis of these tweets, an attempt was made to discern the patterns reflecting audience-customer engagement with the brand. To conclude, a time series chart of the content publishing process, time series and trend of emotions or sentiments pertaining to the content, keywords, and super hashtags, as well as the topic modeling of the data collected were illustrated. Additionally, the most prominent trends and topics observed in the engagement of Twitter users with the Digikala brand were pinpointed.
Extended Abstract:
Introduction
Based on the report from the Zelka platform, Digikala is considered the most responsive Iranian brand across various social media channels. Furthermore, a notable volume of tweets incorporating the keyphrase "Digikala" are published daily on Twitter, underscoring the importance of analyzing the manner in which audience-customers engage with the Digikala brand on the Twitter platform. We firmly believe that the results obtained through this research can serve as a valuable basis for studies of comparable natures. In this research endeavor, through an in-depth examination of the various ways in which audience-customers interact with the Digikala brand, which stands as one of the most prominent online retailers within the broader Middle East region, we aim to unveil distinct perspectives pertaining to the engagement of the Twitter audience with this particular brand. Additionally, we seek to compile and present these insights in the form of descriptive and targeted charts for a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
In summary, this research aims to examine and analyze certain indicators, such as sentiment analysis, variations in the volume of published material, and the utilization of visual presentations like graphs that showcase the volume of tweets within extensive timeframes. Furthermore, this study will utilize techniques such as hashtag cloud, word cloud, and topic modeling to unveil the patterns and motivations behind audience-customer engagement with the online retail brand. Ultimately, the findings of this research will provide researchers, social network activists, particularly media managers within businesses, with a more precise understanding of the dynamics prevailing in social networks, particularly on Twitter. To obtain data from Twitter and gather tweets containing the keyword "Digikala", the tweets sent between April 1, 2021, and February 1, 2021, have been examined, resulting in a total of 96,635 tweets. Following this, by utilizing time series analysis, sentiment analysis, publishing trends and content volume, hyperwords, super hashtags, and topic modeling, we aim to extract distinguishable patterns that contribute to achieving the objectives of this research.
Methods
This research project possesses an applied and exploratory nature. In relation to the aims and purposes of the study, the research will rely primarily on quantitative data. In order to identify the patterns of customer-audience engagement concerning the Digikala brand on Twitter, we will collect and analyze tweets originating from the Digikala user account, as well as tweets from other users containing the keyphrase "Digikala". Furthermore, the utilization of data mining techniques and social network analysis have been employed, with the application of the hashtag platform, a tool for monitoring various social networks, to efficiently collect and study data (tweets) sourced from the Internet.
The official Twitter page of DigiKala, which features a blue tick and goes by the handle @digikala.com, has amassed over 35,000 followers at the time of writing this text. The page has emerged as one of the most prominent brand pages in Persian language Twitter. As such, the results of the analyses and patterns derived in this research are anticipated to be both enlightening and of practical value to other professionals and researchers within this domain.
Discussion and Results
In the course of analyzing the data, a variety of graphs and patterns pertaining to time series, sentiment analysis, and super words were obtained. Utilizing the topic modeling technique, further insights were derived. For instance, the outcome of the examination of the volume of content published on Twitter related to DigiKala highlights that utilizing this platform as part of a marketing strategy to engage the audience-customers is a shrewd move by the brand. Remarkably, during the period in which DigiKala implemented diverse Twitter campaigns, the level of engagement between the audience-customers and this brand has reached its pinnacle.
Conclusions
Following the process of gathering data and listening to the social discourse, the subsequent step involves identifying patterns related to the audience-customers. For instance, as revealed in the current research, DigiKala's audience-customers demonstrated engagement with the brand through reactions to its campaigns, festivals, gamifications, and awards on Twitter. Such engaging campaigns can serve as an effective communication model for numerous other brands.
Ultimately, while audience-customer engagement is crucial for brands, achieving an advantageous position in the spread of positive sentiments about the brand carries even greater significance. It is inevitable that businesses, regardless of their location, are not immune to errors. However, it is highly unlikely that a business with fundamental flaws can maintain its audience-customers' satisfaction and contentment. As a result, businesses and brands are able to reach the ultimate stage, which is transformation, by employing social network analysis tools and undergoing the prior steps. Reforms that transpire in regards to trends, products, methods, strategies, and so on, as well as their subsequent implementation, necessitate critical thinking and the ability to scrutinize the surrounding environment.
Faezeh Bahmanmirza; farideh hosseinsabet; Faramarz Sohrabi
Abstract
The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of social media use on depression with the mediating role of body image. The present research was descriptive-correlational in terms of data collection method and applied in terms of aims. The statistical population of the study included all ...
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The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of social media use on depression with the mediating role of body image. The present research was descriptive-correlational in terms of data collection method and applied in terms of aims. The statistical population of the study included all young members of social networks. Using the Green formula, the required sample size (104) was determined (n=234). Samples were selected by the convenience sampling method. We employed the Young Internet Addiction Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory, and Multidimensional Relationships Questionnaires to collect data. The results of this study indicate that participants’ depression was mild. The participants’ social media had no addiction to the Internet. In addition, they had strong body image. The results of the regression test showed that social media use has a moderate effect on depression. The mediating role of body image in the relationship between social media use and depression was confirmed, as well. Considering the significant effect of social media use on depression through body image, it is of prime importance to adopt strategies to inform people about the proper use of these sites and to foster people’s perception of their body image through psychological workshops, coupled with educational programs related to media literacy.
Extended Abstract:
Introduction
Nowadays, the use of social networks has become an indispensable part of human life. Since the use of these networks affects various aspects of human life such as behavioral patterns, well-being level, interactions, and people's awareness, it is crucial to investigate this area. Extensive studies have been conducted in Iran and the world to investigate the effects of using social media sites on Human life. Past studies indicated that the use of social networks is related to the increase in negative mood. Moreover, studies have shown that there is a relationship between the use of social networks and the shaping of a negative attitude towards the body (negative body image). Considering the high prevalence of depression in Iran and the increasing use of social networks, it is required and useful to examine the relationship between these variables by considering other influencing factors. Although a lot of research has investigated this relationship, the relationship between the use of virtual networks and depression, considering the role of body image, is still unclear and ambiguous. Therefore, the present research aims to address this issue.
Research questions:
What is the relationship between social media use and depression among the Iranian population?
What is the impact of social media use on depression with the mediating role of body image?
Literature
Although there are studies that indicate the relationship between the use of social networks and higher well-being in users, many studies show a stronger relationship between social media use and depression (Tandoc & Goh, 2023, Sadagheyani & Tatari, 2021).
Aalbers et al. (2019) showed in their study that there is a significant relationship between passive use of networks and depression. In addition, Yim & Park (2019) and Hogue & Mills (2019) concluded that negative body image increases with more social media use. Also, previous research shows that people with negative body image spend more time checking and collecting information related to their body image on social networks. Pedalino & Camerini (2022) also confirms the connection between the use of social networks and the formation of body dissatisfaction. Besides, The results of the study conducted by Haghighatian et al. (2013), who investigated the factors influencing the formation of body image, showed that among the influencing factors (family, school, people around, and media), the media plays the biggest role.
Methodology
The current study is correlational and descriptive and aims to investigate the relationship between social media use, depression, and body image. To measure these variables, we employed Likert scale questionnaires: the Young's Internet Addiction Questionnaire, the Beck depression questionnaire, Multidimensional Self-Body Relationship Questionnaire (MBSRQ). The statistical population of this research includes all people in the non-clinical population who are over 15 years old living in Iran and who are members of at least one social network. The sampling process employed a convenience sampling method using the Green formula, which resulted in a sample size of 237 individuals. After data collection, data was subject to statistical analysis: Pearson’s correlation test and Sobel test.
Results
Concerning the relationship between social media use and depression, the analysis revealed that the relationship between the two variables is significant (P<0.001). Also, the results of the correlation test show that the value of the Pearson correlation coefficient between these two variables is equal to 0.592, which indicates a moderate and direct relationship between the two variables, meaning that with the increase in the use of social networks, the depression score also increases. Moreover, the significance level in the correlation test between the use of social networks and body image indicates the significance of the relationship between the two variables (-0.474, P<0.001). The table below presents the findings of the Pearson's correlation test.
Variable
Depression
Social media use
Body image
Depression
1.000
Social media use
(0,001> 0.592 (P
1.000
Body image
(0,001> 0.474 P(0-
(0.001> 0.474(P-
1.000
According to the regression coefficient test, the effect of using social media on depression is significant (T = 11.272), (P < 0.001) and since the value of the path coefficient is equal to 0.592, this effect is direct and average. Therefore, the use of social media has a positive and significant effect on depression. Also, according to the coefficient of determination (0.351), the variable of using social media predicts 35.1% of depression, which is considered an average value.
Model
Sum of squares
df
Mean square
F
Sig.
Regression
11865.11
1
11865.11
127.05
0.001) >P)
Residuals
21946.51
235
93.38
Total
33811.63
236
The results of investigating the mediating role of body image with the Sobel test indicate the indirect effect of body image on the relationship between social networks and depression (0.0894). Therefore, it can be claimed that body image plays a mediating role in the relationship between the use of social networks and depression among young people. Confirming the mediating role of body image means that a part of the effect of using social networks on increasing depression can be explained by reducing positive body image.
Mediating variable
Mediating effect
Std. Error of the Estimate
Lower Bootstrap
Upper Bootstrap
Z
Sig.
Body image
0.894
0.234
0.434
0.135
3.812
(0,001>P)
Conclusion
Considering the exponential increase in the number of users on social media sites, it is of prime importance to investigate the effects of this phenomenon on the changes in the psychological characteristics of people. These networks are effective in shaping and changing people's attitudes toward themselves and subsequently their feelings and moods by presenting various patterns. The present study was conducted to expand previous studies in the field of social media use, body image, and depression. In total, the findings of the research show that there is a positive and significant relationship between the amount of social network use and the level of depression. Concerning the relationship between the amount of use of social networks and depression and the mediating role of body image, The findings of the research are compatible with previous theories (theory of need satisfaction, Ideal internalization theory, Social comparison theory, etc.) and can be interpreted.
The environments and interactions in which people participate change people's attitudes towards themselves and life, especially when these interactions include diverse and sometimes contradictory ideas and patterns. Since online interactions provide users with numerous unlimited patterns, these communications are effective in the development of a person's attitude, mental image of his body, and self-worth. Therefore, active social media users are more likely to experience dissatisfaction with their current status and appearance due to the fact that these connections enable people to compare themselves with the ideals displayed around the world and experience feelings of despair and failure. As a result, raising people’s awareness about the accurate use of social networks seems to be integral. Extensive measures should be taken in society and the context of interactive groups such as schools or universities to promote social media literacy so that society will be able to mitigate the negative effects of social media use in the long run.
Zahra Bagheri; seyedreza naghibulsadat; Mansoureh Zarean
Abstract
Abstract
Demands in a society can be understood as the needs shared by most or a significant number of its members. These needs are shaped by the dominant discourses within that particular society. It is crucial to note that discourses prioritize the needs of their followers. By identifying prominent ...
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Abstract
Demands in a society can be understood as the needs shared by most or a significant number of its members. These needs are shaped by the dominant discourses within that particular society. It is crucial to note that discourses prioritize the needs of their followers. By identifying prominent discourses with numerous followers in the domain of women's rights, it becomes possible to comprehend their demands. Essentially, understanding these discourses serves as a window into the needs and desires of women's rights advocates within a given society. At the macro level, identifying the demands of women's rights advocates through discourse analysis can provide a foundation for legislating and planning to fulfill these demands. Given its expansive platform for sharing diverse content such as text, images, audio, and video, Instagram presents an ideal space for women's rights discourse. The current research has focused on analyzing discourse about women's rights demands within this prominent social network. The present study, as an exploratory research, was conducted through applied and qualitative methods. The research method utilized was discourse analysis, specifically the approach developed by Norman Fairclough and Theon Van Dyck. Furthermore, the non-probability sampling method and the targeted technique were applied. The statistical population comprised all real Instagram pages belonging to Iranian female users with more than 10,000 followers. These pages were required to be centered on the rights of Iranian women. Considering the eligibility criteria, each Instagram page needed to have a minimum length of at least 300 words and other requirements. Consequently, from a sample of 1000 pages, 56 met these criteria. The findings of the study revealed that there are eleven prominent discourses garnering considerable support on Instagram, which address women's rights demands. The following eleven discourse categories emerged as the most popular on Instagram based on the number of followers they attracted: "Radical Feminist," "Liberal Feminist," "Cultural and Social Demands of Mothers," "Empowerment of Women," "New Religious Thinkers," "Positive View of the Body," "Women's Cultural and Social Demands," "Anti-Advertising Bloggers," "Women's Legal Demands," "Anti-Violence Against Women," and "Islamic Feminist."
Extended Abstract:
Introduction - Research Questions:
Historically, in societies across the world, humans have possessed desires and needs which, upon being shared by a significant portion of the population, become public demands and claims. These demands, which may be framed through a gendered lens, if left unmet, could potentially lead to civil or street protests due to societal pressures. In Iran, prior to the Islamic Revolution, most women were relatively unaware of their rights, leading to a scarcity of demands being voiced, primarily due to a lack of access to education, with many women being illiterate or having only completed elementary schooling. Only women from higher social classes and the educated echelons made demands.
The Islamic Revolution marked a significant turning point in the education of women, and this paved the way for their entry into the labor market. This development saw the emergence of educated women from diverse backgrounds who joined universities, broadening the spectrum of demands. Armed with an understanding of their capabilities, these women articulated a growing demand for increased participation in family and societal management, coupled with aspirations for greater privileges for their socio-economic class.
The advancement of technology has indeed had a significant impact on the expansion of demand-related discourses and the number of its proponents. A key characteristic of media technology is the ability to keep individuals' identities concealed, particularly on social networks, which typically do not charge their members for engaging in activities. This, in turn, facilitates the easy expression of opinions and creation of content in areas of interest. Consequently, a platform has been established for cultivating greater awareness among women of their rights and broadening the scope of their demands.
Among interactive media, there exists a class of tools known as social networks, which have gained immense popularity and wide-spread usage, including examples such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Telegram. These networks serve a crucial role in enabling individuals to express their opinions and views. Notably, they have also contributed to the formation of discourses concerning women's demands within these social media platforms.
Given the significance of the topics at hand and the prevalence of the Instagram social network, the primary question this research paper aims to address is: What types of discourses concerning women's rights are active within the Instagram social network? Essentially, the objective of this paper is to identify the various discourses pertaining to women's rights claims on the Instagram platform.
A study conducted by Mohammadi et al. (2019) explored the comprehension and interpretation of discourses surrounding "women's support for football." The research revealed that the religio-political discourse, grounded in a distinctly Muslim identity, aims to negate other forms of femininity and fundamentally rejects the notion of football fandom among women.
The study conducted by Moghimi et al. (2019) sought to analyze the prevalent discourse of hate directed towards women on the Instagram pages of female users. By employing the discourse analysis approach developed by Theon E. Van Dyke, the researchers examined the pages of four female users active in the field of women's issues.
A meticulous examination and review of the analyzed content unveiled three primary forms of violence. Firstly, there was an expression of discrimination and antagonism towards the patriarchal system. Secondly, there was a targeted condemnation of the institution of family and the conventional role ascribed to women within this system. Lastly, there was a discourse that advocated for feminist and progressive ideals, through a lens of destruction against traditional values, aiming to dismantle the constraints of conventional norms and liberate women from the confines of tradition.
A study by Kharazmi et al. (2019) aimed to identify the cultural actions of women following the Islamic Revolution, by analyzing the discourse of Islamic feminism demands, based on the principles set forth by Margat Badran. This research identified key signifiers using the theoretical framework of Laclau and Moff, which falls under the category of critical discourse analysis. The results of this study indicated that the central signifiers of the Islamic feminist discourse are directed at the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Methodology
The current study employed the "discourse analysis" method, combining descriptive and analytical approaches. This method involved utilizing the theoretical foundations to extract categories, and subsequently conducting discourse analysis across two stages. Drawing upon Fairclough's theory, the target text was initially described to lay the foundation, then depth was added and the body of the discourse was achieved through descriptive, interpretive, and explanatory measures. This process led to uncovering relevant information concerning both micro-level discourse and macro-level social behavior.
In the subsequent stage of discourse analysis, adopting the framework put forth by Theon Van Dyke, specific categories were scrutinized to extract related discourses. The sample size for this study was determined to fall within the range of 15 to 25 samples, with a focus on discourses related to women's rights demands. The study employed a "non-probability sampling" approach, specifically the "targeted" technique, to evaluate the Instagram pages of female users with over 10,000 followers. The unit of analysis in this research consists of the content of these pages' published submissions.
Results
The findings were subsequently ranked based on the number of followers subscribed to each discourse identified. Using these criteria, eleven discourses were discovered. The foremost discourse, "Radical Feminist," critiques the patriarchal system and critiques all the conditions inherent to women's demands. The discourse that came in second, "Liberal Feminist," highlights the patriarchal system and the historical oppression of women, suggesting that equal rights can be achieved for women by entering into cultural arenas and attempting to shift gender stereotypes.
The third discourse delves into the topic of "cultural and social demands of mothers." This discourse posits that society indoctrinates women who choose to have children, leading to social isolation and hindering their potential for career development and personal growth. The fourth discourse centers around "empowering women," which highlights the challenges faced by married or soon-to-be-married women in their interactions with men. The fifth discourse, known as "Religious Thinkers," suggests that re-examining religious texts, particularly the interpretations of the Quran, can offer a solution to the problems at hand. The sixth discourse is "body positivity," which asserts that women have become pawns in the interests of capitalists, acting not only as their victims but also as their advocates in the diet industry.
The seventh discourse focuses on "cultural and social demands of women." Within this discourse, issues affecting women are addressed from a cultural and societal standpoint. The eighth discourse, related to "anti-advertisement bloggers," critiques advertisement bloggers and sweethomes for their involvement in advertisements, which have led to increased consumerism and decreased self-confidence among women, often in exchange for monetary compensation or free facilities.
The ninth discourse, titled "Women's Rights," addresses legal issues pertaining to women, including topics such as dowry, alimony, permission to leave the country, the right to work, the right to housing, custody, guardianship, and related concerns. This discourse advocates for the rewriting of the Family Protection Law. The 10th discourse, "Anti-violence Against Women," stresses the elimination of all forms of violence against women, particularly domestic violence toward women. It also highlights the root causes of these problems, attributing them not only to cultural factors but also to flaws within criminal laws. This discourse advocates for the need to revise these laws. The 11th discourse, known as "Islamic Feminist," seeks to identify common grounds between Islam and feminism and apply feminist principles within the Islamic thoughts and laws of Iran.
Conclusion
The findings of the present study revealed that in the Instagram social network, the "Radical Feminists" discourse is highly active as the dominant discourse resisting the rights of Iranian women. This highlights a significant gap in the domain, characterized by a shortage of accurate and timely information regarding women's demands coupled with the absence of effective channels for pursuing these demands. Given these findings, it is recommended that media, both in the physical realm in the form of newspapers and magazines, as well as in the digital space in the form of news agencies or websites, should specifically focus on the demands of Iranian women. Furthermore, appropriate regulations should be established to regulate and control online content in order to prevent the spread of biased and anti-governmental views. Additionally, well-known figures and media outlets should be utilized to effectively convey the positions of the Islamic Revolution, Article 21 of the Constitution, and the "Islamic fundamentalist" discourse within the context of women's demands.
Encouraging the establishment of creative and thought-provoking cultural centers to create attractive media productions and textual content in the field of primary women's demands is crucial. Synchronizing these demands with existing laws for addressing women's issues is also essential. Additionally, the Women's Faction in parliament should actively pursue legal actions to rectify the legal loopholes responsible for the possible exploitation of women by certain men. By implementing these strategies, we can aspire to shift the balance of power in favor of the dominant discourse in support of Islamic fundamentalist ideology, which aligns with Iranian-Islamic rituals and beliefs and is the prevailing discourse in Iran.
Tagi Akbari; babak nourollahzadeh khiavi
Abstract
Media literacy is a set of learnable skills that refer to the ability to access, analyze, criticize and create various types of media messages. It is considered an essential skill in today's world. The aim of this study was to measure the level of critical media literacy using the model developed by ...
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Media literacy is a set of learnable skills that refer to the ability to access, analyze, criticize and create various types of media messages. It is considered an essential skill in today's world. The aim of this study was to measure the level of critical media literacy using the model developed by Elizabeth Tamman. The study is classified as applied research, with the purpose of eliciting information, and as a survey in terms of research methodology. The study population consisted of all employees of Ardabil city's departments in the year 2021. The total population size was estimated at 10,000 based on data from the management and planning organization of the Ardabil province, as provided in the 2019 statistical yearbook. Morgan's table was used to determine the sample size, and 285 individuals were selected through multi-stage cluster sampling. To gather data, a questionnaire based on Elizabeth Tamman's (1995) model was utilized in this study. The results of the research, analyzed using SPSS version 26 software, suggest that there is no significant correlation between demographic factors (such as gender, marital status, income, age, and education level) and critical media literacy based on Tamman's (1995) model. Inferential findings indicated that the level of critical media literacy, considering variables such as consumption pattern, recognition of message characteristics and message criticism, was found to be greater than 0.05 (p-value = 1.000) in the study population. However, the mean media literacy score was deemed lower than optimal.
Extended Abstract:
Introduction
In the 21st century, we find ourselves in a world marked by contrasting forces—a treacherous yet promising era. Rapid change and transformation define this landscape, where deep social divisions and the destructive impact of information technology and new media technologies coexist. Giddens (2013: 21) highlights contradiction and tension as its main characteristics. Mass communication tools, including newspapers, television, radio, satellite networks, and new media on the internet, facilitate the exchange of information and ideas, playing a crucial role in cultural and societal development. These tools are so significant that many experts have dubbed the current era the "age of communication," emphasizing their profound impact on human life (Motamanjad, 3:1390).
In the current era, with the abundance of information and widespread communication, people face the challenge of discerning and selecting among the multitude of information and media tools, ensuring the authenticity of the information. It is in this context that the importance of media literacy skill becomes evident (Tabarsa, Sharifi & Hosseini, 2015). In today's world, two factors are essential to consider: the ever-expanding nature of information and communication technologies and their pervasive influence on human life, coupled with the growing prevalence of information leakage, pollution, and the necessity for reliable sources of information. Moreover, mass media's vast reach, its significant role in shaping societal intellectual development, and its impact on informal education and raising public awareness should not be overlooked. Additionally, the importance of critical media literacy has become more crucial than ever, as it enables individuals to effectively analyze media messages and content while being aware of potential biases.
We find ourselves in an era of media saturation (McLean, Paxton & Wertheim, 2016). Due to this saturation, the amount of available information is overwhelming, necessitating thoughtful and judicious decision-making when selecting relevant information. Currently, the media holds a pivotal position in our lives, along with formal education. Together, they play a crucial role in enhancing people's skills and knowledge, becoming essential components of personal and societal development.
As you traverse the information superhighway, media literacy empowers you to discern how much time to dedicate to various media platforms and websites, ensuring your time spent is purposeful and productive. Those who possess media literacy skills can approach programs with a critical, analytical, research-oriented perspective, as the media serves as a vital source of information about the world around us. Equipped with media literacy, individuals can critically analyze messages, comprehend the message's purpose and intentions, and determine the message's sender's viewpoint.
According to Elizabeth Thomman, media literacy functions like a judging filter, sifting through the vast world of messages and transforming the encounter into something meaningful. Thomman posits that a media message operates on three distinct layers:
The first layer pertains to personal planning in media consumption, known as "consumption regime," where the audience demonstrates more selective attention in choosing and watching various types of programs, specifically in the use of television, video, internet, computer games, films and other media, adjusting consumption levels accordingly.
The second layer entails scrutinizing the subtler aspects of media, focusing on profound questions such as: Who produces media messages? What is the intent behind transmitting the message? Who profits from disseminating the message, and who may be adversely affected?
The third layer of media literacy focuses on critical viewing skills. With these skills, the audience is able to analyze and question the framework of the media message and the hidden elements within it. At this level, it is crucial to recognize the facts and aspects that have been left out or omitted. Consequently, the audience's understanding of the text hinges on identifying the underlying dimensions of the media message. In essence, Thomas Hobbes regards this aspect of media literacy as "higher level understanding," highlighting its significance. His perspective suggests that this aspect of media literacy offers remarkable insight into predicting the audience's needs and expectations with uncanny precision.
Elizabeth Thomman's definition suggests that as the layers of media literacy deepen, so does the audience's level of critical thinking about the media. Initially, the audience is expected to exercise discretion in their media consumption habits, while in the second layer, they must exhibit discernment in choosing media messages based on the sender's characteristics. In other words, the audience selectively engages with certain messages while disregarding the rest.
In the third layer of media literacy, media messages are scrutinized thoroughly. As a result, media literacy empowers the audience to critically assess the messages they receive and transform from a passive state to an active, questioning, and self-expressive stance. Critical media literacy serves as a unique capacity that elevates the reader from a passive object to an active agent in the act of interpreting texts, regardless of whether they are written, visual, or auditory, and across various mediums such as books, magazines, billboards, radio, television, and satellite communications.
Research Methodology
This study was designed for practical purposes and employed a descriptive research method. The statistical population of the study comprised the entire workforce of the government departments in Ardabil city in the year 2019, totaling 10,000 individuals according to management and planning organization data. To determine the sample size, a multistage cluster sampling method was used, yielding a sample size of 285 individuals. The study utilized a standardized questionnaire (authored by Toman in 1995) to collect data. For the purpose of evaluating the level of media literacy among the employees of Ardabil city offices, this research utilized a standard questionnaire with three constructs and 59 closed-ended questions on a five-point Likert scale. The dimensions measured included consumption regime, message characteristics, and critiques pertaining to the messages.
The research analysis consisted of descriptive statistics, involving frequency statistics, mean, standard deviation, skewness, and kurtosis coefficients. Subsequently, inferential statistics utilized single-sample t-tests, independent groups t-tests, and analysis of variance to contrast the average of research variables regarding demographic factors. The findings were analyzed employing SPSS26 statistical software at a 5% significance level.
Discussion and conclusion
Based on the model proposed by Elizabeth Tamman, this research aimed to assess the level of critical media literacy among government department employees in their daily lives and determine the extent of their consumption of various mass media, including television, the internet, newspapers, satellite services, and social networks. Additionally, the research aimed to examine the tendencies of multiple segments of society, emphasizing the importance of government employees and executive bodies as vital and sensitive elements of the nation's bureaucratic framework in their engagement with mass and interactive media. Furthermore, the study focused on highlighting the significance of understanding and recognizing the diverse layers of media messages while concurrently enhancing the level of comprehension and capability to critically evaluate these messages. Based on the research findings in response to question one, the average critical media literacy score for employees at offices in Ardabell City, when accounting for the factors of consumption regime, message characteristics, and message criticism, exceeded the 5/000 threshold. Additionally, the average media literacy among government office employees fell short of the desired level.
The findings of this study diverge from those of Esquii (2017), Renko (2020), Dim and Mitchell (2020), Tarihi, Guzman Vaikin (2020) and Fleming (2020) with regards to message recognition and message critique. The research findings are also congruent with the studies conducted by Sotoudeh Rad, Taghizadeh, Heydari, and Kishori (2019) as well as Festel (2020) in terms of message characteristic recognition, critical and analytical media message assessment.
In addressing the findings pertaining to the first fundamental question of this study, a crucial dimension of media literacy according to Elizabeth Tamman's theory, the variable of consumption regime, appears to have received less attention and emphasis in the outcomes of previous researches. As a fundamental gap in preceding studies, the current research has diligently scrutinized the consumption regime of office workers regarding their exposure to mass media throughout the day and night, as well as the extent of time allocated daily. Through this approach, the research has yielded significant insights into this crucial aspect of media consumption.
Given the significant role and position held by government office workers, who are predominantly university graduates working in government and governance positions, as they regularly engage with mass media (television, internet, newspaper, satellite, and social networks), especially the internet for an average of 1-3 hours, and considering the wide variety and abundance of media messages, it was anticipated that these individuals would have a favorable standing in terms of recognizing the characteristics of media messages and critically evaluating media content. It was expected that attending specialized training courses and investing resources and public funds would lead to improved knowledge and understanding among these government office employees.
The findings of this study reveal that the average level of media literacy among the employees of government department offices in Ardabil city falls short of the desired standard. The research findings in response to question two, which seeks to determine whether there is a significant distinction in average critical media literacy among employees of Ardabil city offices based on demographic factors (gender, age, education, and income), indicate that there is indeed a significant difference between the levels of media literacy among these demographic groups.
Upon analyzing the data, it became apparent that there was no significant correlation between the average critical media literacy of government department employees in Ardabil city and the demographic variables (gender, age, education, and income).
In this particular research study, the findings concerning the demographic variables align with those presented by: Sotoudeh Rad, Heydari and Kishori (2013), Iranpour (2018), Eskoui (2017), Nemati, Bagherzadeh and Kazemi (2017), Bani Hashem, Noushadi, Soltanizadeh and Aliabadi (2016), Bani Hashem, Noushadi, Soltanizadeh and Aliabadi (2016), Soltanifar (2013), Babran and Khodavirdizadeh (2013), Ashrafi Rizi, Ramezani, Aghajani and Kazempour (2013), Qadri (2011), Shojaei and Amirpour (2011), Hamedi (2013) and Festel (2020), Iranpour (1398), Eskoi (1397), Nemati, Bagherzadeh and Kazemi (1397), Bani Hashem, Noushadi, Soltanizadeh and Aliabadi (1396), Babran and Khodavirdizadeh (1393), Ashrafi Rizi, Ramezani, Aghajani and Kazempour (2013), Qadri (2014), Shojaei and Amirpour (2014), Hamedi (2015), Renko (2020), Dim and Michel (2020), Tarihi, Gazman and Eakin (2020), Fleming (2020).
The alignment of results observed in this study with those of previous investigations can be attributed to the rapid advancement of communication technologies and the growing influence of interactive mass media online, coupled with the heightened academic literacy level and expanded range of academic disciplines. Furthermore, the shifting roles of individuals as social actors, moving away from traditional gender expectations, and the changing nature of social interactions all contribute to the lack of significant correlation between demographic variables and critical media literacy among government office employees in Ardabil city. Consequently, the improvement of media literacy skills appears to extend beyond demographic factors.
Suggestions
It is important to acknowledge that every study has its limitations and can only investigate a certain number of aspects of a social issue. The burgeoning emergence of new social problems and phenomena, in line with the rapid expansion and advancement of information and communication technology, coupled with the prevailing status of mass media as the most trustworthy source of news, information, and awareness-raising, particularly in the network societies of the 21st century in both developed and developing countries, has resulted in a wide range of dimensions and aspects that remain to be explored.
Based on the findings of this study, it is highly recommended that future researchers expand their scope to include not only the employees of government offices in Ardabil city but also consider a wider demographic encompassing various regions within the country. Additionally, it would be beneficial for researchers to broaden their reach further to incorporate data from other countries and compare their outcomes. By doing so, a more accurate insight into the current state of critical media literacy within Iranian society can be obtained.
A suggestion worth considering is for the officials and administrators responsible for managing each province to arrange specialized workshops pertaining to media literacy for employees of government departments and executive bodies. These workshops ought to be conducted by reputable specialists in this field, with the ultimate goal of identifying the strengths and addressing the weaknesses within the system. This action will not only facilitate a better understanding of media literacy among the employees, but will also provide valuable feedback for future planning and development.
In order to ensure effective decision-making and avoid any wastage of time, financial resources, and the country's cultural capital, it is crucial for administrators and officials involved in policy-making processes to familiarize themselves with the relevant research in the fields of social communication sciences, media, and social developments. They should avoid extravagance and unnecessary decisions made without expert support. Adopting the principle of specialization will significantly reduce the risk of material and spiritual losses. Moreover, it is essential to establish a clear and distinct line of differentiation between decision- making and decision implementation.
Sadegh Hamedinasab; Masoumeh Azizi; Rezvan Mohammadi
Abstract
The objective of this study was to ascertain insights into the experiences and perceptions of student teachers with regard to the use of social networks in learning content. The research method employed for this study was qualitative and phenomenological in nature, with the participant pool consisting ...
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The objective of this study was to ascertain insights into the experiences and perceptions of student teachers with regard to the use of social networks in learning content. The research method employed for this study was qualitative and phenomenological in nature, with the participant pool consisting of all student teachers pursuing the primary education specialty at Farhangian University of Birjand during the academic year 2021-2022. To gather insights for this study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a total of 15 student teachers (7 males and 8 females) through purposive sampling. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. The collected data were then analyzed using the content analysis method. To ensure reliability, the agreement between coders method was used, while expert review was applied to validate the study findings. The study revealed that the content of student-teacher learning in social media encompasses a range of material, including university-related topics such as discipline-based, skill-based and English language content, as well as school-related content covering teaching methods, classroom management and fundamental courses. Additionally, general information such as news, medical information, and technological advancements fall within the scope of this learning content. Another significant finding from the study indicated that student teachers do not have a positive perception of the content shared on social networks, with concerns about its reliability and validity. This includes aspects such as disproportionately unbalanced content and the presence of incomplete information. In light of these findings, the study suggests that Farhangian University consider providing credible, organized, and appropriate content for each field of study on social media platforms. This will aid in the development of student-teacher professions and foster a positive attitude towards the content offered on these platforms. Extended Abstract:IntroductionThe rapid growth and wide reach of the internet have paved the way for increased interaction and information exchange between students and teachers. Education, being a complex process, is influenced by multiple factors, and the role of social networks in the learning process cannot be overstated. Through collaboration with other teachers, instructors can access valuable information beyond official educational programs. The objective of this study is to explore the learning content for student teachers on social networks, as well as their perception of the validity and credibility of the information and resources shared on these platforms.Materials and MethodsFor the current study, a qualitative phenomenological research approach was adopted. The target population consisted of all student teachers in the field of primary education at Farhangian University in Birjand during the academic year 2021-2022. Using purposive sampling, semi-structured interviews were carried out with 15 participants from this population (7 males and 8 females) until theoretical saturation of the data was achieved. The selection criteria for the semi-structured interviews involved recruiting student teachers who actively used social networks, as this aligned with the research objectives. To analyze the collected data from the interviews, thematic analysis was employed. This process involved extracting basic themes (codes and key points of the text), organizing themes (themes generated from combining and summarizing the basic themes), and overarching themes. In order to ensure data reliability, the coder consensus method was utilized, while expert review was applied to validate the study's findings.Discussion and ResultsThe findings of the study confirmed that the content of student teachers' learning on social networks incorporates three primary categories: university-related topics, school-related topics, and general information. Specifically, in terms of university-related content, there is a strong emphasis on developing practical skills, acquiring discipline-specific knowledge, and enhancing English language proficiency.The importance of school-related content in the learning process was also highlighted by the study, as student teachers seek knowledge about innovative teaching techniques, classroom administration, and foundational topics for their future educational roles. Furthermore, the research also showed that student teachers frequently access information related to news, technological advancements, and health-related matters on social networks. However, the study revealed that student teachers tend to have a less favorable opinion of the content shared on social media platforms, attributing this to shortcomings in accuracy, reliability, and thoroughness.ConclusionsConsidering the substantial amount of time student teachers spend on social networks, both intentionally and inadvertently, it is crucial to provide appropriate content. Despite their usage, student teachers hold a negative perception of the content offered on these platforms. To address this issue, it is recommended that the content be formally and systematically presented through the official social media channels of Farhangian University.Professors of Farhangian University are encouraged to utilize their official presence on social media actively and constructively, employing these platforms as a valuable resource to support their teaching endeavor and share content related to their educational modules. To foster practical application alongside theoretical knowledge, Farhangian University should establish and promote official learning channels and groups specifically catering to various educational departments. By doing so, student teachers will be introduced to innovative teaching strategies, classroom administration techniques, and discipline-related content.To cultivate student teachers' trust in the content presented on social networking platforms, it is essential to ensure that materials and resources disseminated through the official communication channels of Farhangian University are reliably validated. In order to provide appropriate, authentic content, Farhangian University should establish specialized groups or channels for each field of study, thereby enabling student teachers to access content directly related to their respective areas of study.
Zohreh Mansoury khosraviyeh; Alireza Araghieh; Nader Barzegar; Amirhossein Mehdizadeh; HosseinAli Jahed
Abstract
Abstract
Today, the rapid development of information and communication technologies and the impact of globalization necessitate the use of information technology-related mechanisms by individuals and organizations to stay ahead and gain a competitive advantage. With the expansion of these technologies, ...
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Abstract
Today, the rapid development of information and communication technologies and the impact of globalization necessitate the use of information technology-related mechanisms by individuals and organizations to stay ahead and gain a competitive advantage. With the expansion of these technologies, it has become crucial for all people and organizations to adapt and integrate them into their processes and operations to remain relevant and continue to progress in the globalized world. The study aimed to devise a curriculum model for enhancing students' professional skills through virtual social networks. The employed research method was exploratory and relied on foundational data. The participants in the present study included all curriculum experts and specialists related to the research project, who were selected using a purposive sampling method. The number of participants was considered to be 13 people based on theoretical saturation. The research tool used in the study was semi-structured interviews with experts. Data analysis encompassed theoretical coding. To validate the proposed model, the Delphi method was employed. The research findings revealed that the desired curriculum consisted of 14 dimensions, such as logic, goals, content, teaching-learning strategies, learning activities of learners, materials and resources, grouping of learners, time, space, evaluation methods, and professional qualifications. The identified facilitating and hindering factors were professors and excellence, respectively. The final curriculum model designed for the development of students' professional skills using virtual social networks was found to be valid from both the experts' and users' perspectives.
Extended Abstract:
Introduction
Today, the emergence of new information and communication technologies has fundamentally transformed the educational landscape. Education has evolved to become increasingly virtual, placing a greater responsibility on those involved in planning and formulating educational curricula. In the current digital age, social networks hold immense popularity among internet users worldwide, including in Iran. They represent the most powerful form of online media globally. Recognizing this reality, educators must adapt their curricula accordingly, incorporating virtual elements and programs to effectively engage and educate students.
The abundance and diversity of content, coupled with numerous software capabilities and internet functionalities, have led to the widespread adoption of social networks by users (Sadeghi Nesab et al., 1400). The most effective way to utilize social networks in an academic setting is to integrate them into the curriculum and leverage them to develop students' professional skills. This approach is particularly crucial in the context of a country's higher education system, as it plays a pivotal role in preparing students to take on current and future professional roles, or in other words, in developing their skills as influential individuals and contributors to the nation's industrial progress. Professional development refers to both formal and informal processes aimed at continuous skill enhancement at all levels of education, including colleges, educational institutions, and individuals. The goal is to equip students with the abilities necessary to meet their current professional needs, while also preparing them for future roles in various educational, research, and executive capacities. (Abbas Puro et al., 2014: 93).
Virtual social networks serve as a potent tool for designing a curriculum model and developing students' professional skills. The abundance of activities and interactions within these networks enable curriculum patterns to be formulated based on the requirements and demands of the industry and the job market, addressing the specific needs and emerging needs for skill development in various fields. Virtual social networks play a pivotal role in providing valuable information to students about job opportunities and professional positions. They help students connect with industry and businesses related to their field of study, fostering a dynamic environment for interaction and engagement. Furthermore, these networks facilitate communication between students and professors as well as professional artisans, contributing to the development of students' skills and the enhancement of their professional knowledge.
Students can benefit greatly from the wealth of information and resources available on social networks, using them to stay updated and gain a deeper understanding of industry changes and needs. This makes virtual social networks an effective tool for developing professional skills and enhancing university curricula (Zakiani, 2015:57).
Virtual learning through online platforms offers students access to a plethora of resources and learning content. This includes online courses, videos, electronic resources, and online educational communities, as well as the ability to communicate with teachers and peers in virtual space. In addition, students can share their experiences and knowledge through interactive tools, engage in exercises and group activities, and enhance their learning experience through online collaboration. This underscores the significant impact of information and communication technology on the learning process.
The primary objective of the current research project is to address the question of what curriculum model can be designed to effectively develop students' professional skills through the use of social networks.
Methodology
The research method employed in this study was qualitative and exploratory in nature. The sample for the study consisted of 13 experts from the academic community and higher education specialists, who were selected using theoretical (or targeted) sampling. The process of gathering opinions continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. The research method employed in this study was qualitative and exploratory in nature. The sample for the study consisted of 13 experts from the academic community and higher education specialists, who were selected using theoretical (or targeted) sampling. The process of gathering opinions continued until theoretical saturation was achieved.
To assess the validity of the curriculum model developed in this study, the Delphi method was utilized in a two-stage process involving a group of 13 experts. It is worth mentioning that the final template was endorsed by 7 of these experts. For the interview questions, a panel of 12 experts provided feedback, which was subsequently incorporated into the items. Finally, Guba and Lincoln's (1982) method was adopted to ensure the study's credibility and validity.
The analysis of research data took place simultaneously with the collection of data from the review of theoretical literature and research background, as well as the interviews (given the significance of interviews in the contextualized approach). The analysis process was performed manually and divided into three separate steps. Following the data base theory approach, the analysis of gathered data entailed three distinct stages: open coding, central coding, and selective coding. Initially, in order to familiarize themselves with the data, the texts of all collected data were thoroughly reviewed multiple times in an active and interactive manner. The second step of the analysis process focused on the coding procedure, where codes were assigned to the data.
Primary codes directly related to the research question were recognized and extracted. Following this, data categorization occurred via decoding, after which, using axial coding, open coding-derived data were merged into common elements. This data categorization resulted in indicators being organized into distinct components. The final step involved applying selective coding based on the shared concepts among the components. This process led to the extraction and classification of the curriculum's dimensions into a total of 14 distinct categories.
Findings
Following the data analysis and validation of the research elements, a curriculum was ultimately designed for the development of students' professional skills through the utilization of virtual social networks. The curriculum design encompassed a series of structural elements, including the rationale and logic behind the program, the overarching goals and the pursuit of excellence, the content of the curriculum, the considerations of time and space, the activities and learning experiences for students, the teaching methodologies, the materials and resources necessary, the organization of students into groups, the evaluation methods, the professional qualifications and expertise of professors, the facilitating factors, and the potential interference factors.
Conclusion
The primary objective of this study was the design of a curriculum that would effectively develop students' professional skills through the use of virtual social networks. This involved identifying the key characteristics and components of the curriculum elements necessary to achieve this goal. Based on the findings of this study, the logic of the curriculum design model indicates why and the reason behind its development, taking into account the current needs and requirements of both society and students. The diminishment of face-to-face education serves as an indicator driving this necessity. Given the increasing emphasis on modern technologies, a learner-centered approach to education, and the necessity for curricula that adapt to students' needs in using contemporary facilities, it is crucial that these factors be taken into account when designing a curriculum. The cultivation of new ideas, communication and negotiation, teamwork, and participatory skills is encouraged and supported, providing a foundation for achieving these objectives.
In addressing the professional development of teachers in virtual education, it is necessary for teachers to integrate educational knowledge and content with technology utilization, and leverage technology as a method of communication and interaction. In the logic of the curriculum, the emphasis is on the active learning of students through the interpretation of experiences, engaging them in research activities, and encouraging them to make inferences from both spoken and listening materials. Moreover, technology usage, the presentation of content within the context of networks, and the facilitation of interaction between professors and virtual classrooms are recognized as crucial aspects of this program.
The more active the student is in the learning process, the greater the depth and stability of their comprehension and retention. An effective learning experience relies on the engagement and proactive involvement of the student in the learning process. The grouping of students according to the development of interpersonal relationships and communication, as well as based on the common needs and interests of the students, is considered essential within this curriculum. By assembling groups based on the shared interests of the students, a sense of trust is created among the group members, which serves as the foundation for fostering creative interactions and strengthening the skills of students.
The research outcomes indicate that the utilization of virtual social networks allows students to access course content flexibly and share it in diverse formats. This feature enables students to transcend the bounds of time and space, thus facilitating the learning process. These virtual social networks possess the functionality to access and either receive or send course content. As noted by Siranjoy and Patnewala (2020), the ability to access information at any time and from anywhere, and having the flexibility to learn at one's own pace and convenience, significantly enhances the learning process. The learning space within a curriculum designed to develop students' professional skills through virtual social networks can encompass: collaborative and interactive spaces. In the ideal curriculum, an assortment of evaluation methods are emphasized within these environments. This approach not only fosters greater and deeper attention to diverse learning styles but also engages different senses of the learners, thereby increasing their overall level of engagement.
Another important consideration within this program is the emphasis placed on the suitability of the evaluation methods in accordance with the available technological facilities. Furthermore, the criteria for evaluation should change in accordance with the teaching methods employed, and a quality assessment system needs to be established. The desired curriculum should actively work towards building robust infrastructures, motivating both teachers and students to utilize these technologies effectively. Furthermore, efforts must be made to ensure a high level of support for educational professionals in order to monitor and meet the need for social networks. In accordance with the findings of the research and based on the results discussed so far, it can be recognized that the application of social networks in curriculum design, with the aim of developing students' professional skills, serves as an innovative solution. Furthermore, considering the content that has been mentioned, the utilization of virtual education is deemed crucial and necessary.
hamed seyf; mona solgi; Aramis seyf; Ehsan Shahghasemi
Abstract
This study, employing the theories of reception theory proposed by Stuart Hall and the method of content analysis, examined the way in which citizens in Duroud perceive and interpret 14 political documentaries aired on the "Manoto" TV channel. The research followed a qualitative approach in its methodology ...
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This study, employing the theories of reception theory proposed by Stuart Hall and the method of content analysis, examined the way in which citizens in Duroud perceive and interpret 14 political documentaries aired on the "Manoto" TV channel. The research followed a qualitative approach in its methodology and utilized two methods, namely thematic analysis (to understand the encoding techniques used in the political documentaries) and semi-structured individual and group interviews (to grasp the diverse readings and interpretations of the target audience). The research commenced with the analysis of 14 political documentaries using the thematic analysis method. This allowed the identification of the representation of the discourse of the Islamic Republic and the Pahlavi discourse within these documentaries. Subsequently, the target audience's reading of these documentaries was examined through a combination of individual and group interviews. In the final stage, the data from these interviews was compared with the encoding methods employed by the "Manoto" TV. The findings indicated a hegemonic decoding of the messages by most participants, suggesting that "Manoto" TV has effectively influenced the audience's interpretations.
Extended Abstract:
Introduction
Indeed, the media serve as influential tools in shaping public opinion and influencing social beliefs. Media content has a significant impact on people's comprehension and perception of reality. Due to this influence, studying media representation is crucial. Acting as a mediator between individual consciousness and social structures, the media present realities in a particular manner, thereby holding the power to shape the social construction of reality itself.
As significant media representative of the Pahlavi discourse, Manoto Tv has aimed to present a positive image of pre-revolutionary Iran, particularly in recent times. By creating content in the fields of science, entertainment, and politics, this network seeks to foster positive sentiments towards the monarchy and influence the audience's mentality with the use of archives and documentary materials. This study delves into the identity and financial resources of Manoto Tv, as well as the concerns about its connection with the Pahlavi government's propaganda. The research focuses on analyzing the way in which political documentaries produced by Manoto Tv are read and the impact these documentaries have on the mentality of the target audience. Given that Manoto Tv operates to counteract the discourse of the Islamic Republic, comprehending the audience's response to these documentaries can provide valuable insights into the socio-political landscape of Iran. The central question driving this research revolves around the manner in which political documentaries are interpreted by the target audience and the subsequent effect on public opinion and trust in the reigning discourse.
Research Method
This research adopts a qualitative approach to analyze 14 political documentaries aired on Manoto Tv, employing content analysis and semi-structured interviews. In the initial stage, these documentaries were scrutinized to identify the discourses of the Islamic Republic and the Pahlavi regime. Subsequently, the audience's interpretation of these documentaries was examined through individual and group interviews. Lastly, a comparison was made between the audience's reading and the encoding of Manoto Tv's programming.
In this particular study, a sample of 27 citizens of Doroud was chosen as the research population. Due to the limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the interviews were conducted online through various platforms. The duration of the interviews averaged between 1.5 and 3 hours, while purposeful sampling was used to ensure the inclusion of diverse participants. The data collection process commenced in the middle of September 2021 and concluded towards the end of November, continuing until theoretical saturation was achieved.
The technique employed for data analysis was theme analysis, which involved identifying patterns of meaning within the collected data. The research used a three-stage process for this analysis, encompassing data familiarization, primary code creation, theme identification, and report preparation. Coding in this study was divided into three categories - descriptive, interpretive, and inclusive - and the software MAXQDA was utilized to code the text from the interviews.
Conclusions
Following the Islamic Revolution in Iran, the discourse of Pahlaviism has emerged as a significant competing narrative within the media landscape. Notably, Manoto Tv has played a prominent role in promoting this discourse, aiming to foster positive sentiments towards the Pahlavi era among the Iranian population.
Research has revealed that the political documentaries broadcasted by this television channel have a considerable influence on the political attitudes of Iranian viewers, with an even more pronounced impact during periods of crisis. The findings of this study highlight the propensity of the audience to embrace positive perspectives towards the Pahlavi government while simultaneously critiquing the Islamic Republic.
This effect is further highlighted through the coding of the interviews, which reveals various themes, such as the Pahlavi monarchy's lack of dependence on foreign governments and their focus on economic prosperity during that period. In addition to its significance in critiquing the performance of governing institutions, this research holds value as an instrument for identifying the media platforms that contribute to the decline in public trust. In challenging circumstances, competing narratives can swiftly capture the attention of audiences, which itself can be seen as a warning sign for the prevailing discourse. Therefore, it is crucial for governing bodies to fulfill their responsibilities efficiently in order to retain public trust and prevent the adverse impacts of adversarial narratives.
Azam Velayati; mansour haghighatian; seyedali hashemianfar
Abstract
Abstract
Today, the media world and its audiences are experiencing a paradigm shift from an era that was characterized by a one-sided, ideology-driven media industry that favored a one-sided, monologue, and dictatorial approach. In contrast, the digital world and social media are based on a communication ...
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Abstract
Today, the media world and its audiences are experiencing a paradigm shift from an era that was characterized by a one-sided, ideology-driven media industry that favored a one-sided, monologue, and dictatorial approach. In contrast, the digital world and social media are based on a communication model that enables interaction with everyone, regardless of their intellectual or skill levels. The integration of modern media and social networks into daily life is pervasive, leaving an indelible mark on various relationships and aspects of human existence. In fact, in the current century the concept of celebrity is tied to mass and social media, and without the support of the media, one cannot expect the formation of a celebrity in today's sense, if not the issue of fame, it has a history beyond mass and social media. The global culture industry leverages modern tools, such as media and social networks, with the intent of producing a uniform and standardized culture that serves to manipulate public opinion.
Among today’s media, social networks emerge as a novel media ecosystem that has engaged a wide range of age groups, cultural classes, and social spectrums as users. Through this platform, new social classes have been formed, including influencers, celebrities, and sub-celebrities, who collectively contribute to the ongoing reproduction of the culture industry's goals. The rise of this emerging group on social media platforms, and its influence in the real world, is the main factor in addressing this issue. The main objective of this article is to analyze the effects of celebrity status on the Instagram social network, which has the largest number of users in the country according to the Alexa database with 26 million domestic users in 2019.
This article adopts a quantitative approach with a survey methodology, and its socio-analytics encompasses all active users of the Instagram social network within the year 2019 in the capital city of Tehran. For this research, the SPSS Sample Power software was utilized to ascertain the requisite sample size, where the alpha level was considered across three thresholds: 0.01, 0.03, and 0.05. Taking into account the optimal sample size in the form, a range of 400 to 450 individuals was estimated. In the present study, the sample size at the error level of 0.05% totals 450 participants.
The data for this article was gathered through an online web questionnaire distributed to Instagram users (OneDrive). Given the nature of the topic, data collection was carried out entirely online. The data was then analyzed using SPSS and Smart PLS software. The theoretical foundation of this study rests upon the subject of "culture celebrity" and the impact it has on the various dimensions of daily life of users within the sphere of "culture celebrity" and the primary indicators of "celebritization." Formative processes, as proposed by Flanagan and Nowell (2004), are examined through the lens of the transferability of mental and objective indicators of daily life. This serves as the basis for the evaluation of the proposed hypotheses.
The overall results of the research support the relationship between becoming a celebrity and the external dimension of users' daily life (R2=43%) as well as the internal dimension of users' daily life (R2=49%). In the overall fitted model, the effect of celebrity on daily life is equal to 0.59x0.48, which equals 0.283. As per the provided data, the greatest explanation lies in the social incidence variable, while the lowest explanation pertains to the social capital variable. Drawing upon the findings of this study, it can be concluded that the primary contributors to the new media and social space, along with the ensuing discourse that has absorbed the term "celebritization," not only establish their own discursive realm but also exert a significant impact on various aspects of users' lives, particularly in the realms of both internal and external dimensions.
Life has a substantial influence on this topic, and the evidence suggests that in the near future, this space will exhibit a pronounced impact on identity formation, as generations establish the prevailing thought framework and forge their own ideological foundations through discourse. The discourse will serve as a means for thought leaders and the founders of user belief systems to exert influence. The phenomenon of celebritization holds the potential to instigate a reevaluation of social developments and actions, particularly when considering the long-term consequences of celebritization on societies moving forward.
