Providing a Model for Cultivating E-Citizenship Skills in Iran’s Educational System
Keywords:
E, citizenship, citizenship cultivation, digital literacy, educational system, comprehensive model, digital competencies, educationAbstract
This study aimed to develop a comprehensive and context-based model for cultivating e-citizenship skills within Iran’s educational system. A qualitative interpretive approach was employed using thematic analysis. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 15 experts in educational technology, curriculum studies, educational management, and citizenship education. Participants were selected via purposive and snowball sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data analysis was conducted through open and axial coding, and trustworthiness was ensured through member checking, data triangulation, and intercoder agreement procedures. The analysis resulted in a multidimensional model consisting of seven core dimensions: technical–operational literacy, security–protective literacy, legal–juridical literacy, ethical–behavioral competence, critical digital literacy, digital civic participation competence, and digital health competence. These dimensions were structured into 31 components and 93 operational indicators. The inferred relationships among dimensions indicated that ethical competence and digital civic participation function as key mediating pathways linking foundational digital literacies to healthy and responsible digital behavior. The proposed model conceptualizes e-citizenship cultivation as a holistic educational process that integrates cognitive, ethical, and behavioral dimensions. It provides a systematic framework to guide curriculum development, teacher professional development, and the design of supportive learning environments for effective e-citizenship education.
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