The evaluation of quality of living environment in rural areas from their resident's view (Case study: The rural areas of Aslanduz in Ardebil province)

This paper aims to evaluate effective factors on the satisfaction rate of residents of rural areas of Aslanduz from their residents’ view by using scientific reasoning. Accordingly, by studying related theoretical literature, a conceptual framework including 16 factorshas been considered to be analyzed. The research is both applicable and developmental in terms of its purpose. Moreover; in terms of the method of doing research, it is descriptive-analytical. The features such as: age, gender, education level, economic satisfaction and marital status have been recognized as independent variables to analyze their impacts on the both residents’ satisfaction of their quality of environment and each of 16 factors. The sample size of 384 people was calculated by using Cochran’s formula and by regarding the hypothesis of the maximum heterogeneity. In order to analyze data, two methods of fuzzy multi criteria decision-making and cluster analysis were used.Generally, the ultimate value of the rural areas resident's satisfaction rate from their quality of living environment was identified in three levels (Desirable, fairly desirable, undesirable). Overall resident satisfaction with the quality of the environment in rural areas of Aslanduz was not desirable. The rural areas of Qara Qabaq, Kamp and Torbat Candi indicate high rate of satisfaction. The second one including Idir, Mahboub Kandi, Nour Mohammad Kandi and Gedaylou show the middle level of satisfaction. The lowest rate of satisfaction is seen in both rural areas of Palanglou and Aq Qabaq. Also in the study area between two variables, education level and economic satisfaction with thequality of the living environment, there is a significant relationship. Other independent variables discussed in the present study when compared with the quality of life in rural areas (age, sex and marital status), there seems no significant relationship. Finally, in order to improve the quality of life in rural areas of Aslanduz, the following issues areproposed: Approve projects to improve conditions in rural areas and make convergence; Increase engagement and participation of the villagers in management and decision-making; Conduct researches and benefit from experienced experts to plan and organize a suitable environment for improving rural settlements; Create, extend and predict suitable recreational facilities in rural centers together with broad utilities; Improve the physical conditions of access roads and rural centers which requires the rural residents to build new housing units to improve rural landscape.