The educational cynicism among the students of Distance Learning: identification of indicators and dimensions of quality research

The aim of present research is to identify indicators of cynicism among the students of Distance Learning, In order to create a conceptual framework and develop its theoretical foundations.

This qualitative research was conducted using a descriptive phenomenological approach. Participants in this study included 18 undergraduate, postgraduate and Ph. D. Students from Payame Noor University in academic year of 1395-1396. The selection of contributors was based on experience and general familiarity with the subject. The data were collected by semi-structured, interview, and general guidance methods and it continued until theoretical saturation. The data analysis using the inductive content analysis method was conducted in three open, axial and selective levels.

The findings showed that 54 indicators can be identified and categorized in four dimensions of cynicism toward the Professor, cynicism toward university, social cynicism and personal cynicism.

Students' cynicism is an important and influential factor in the company and the completion of distance education courses, which requires identification and reviewed.