Ranking Scientific Groups Model in Iranian Universities

Determining the position and importance of scientific groups in the operational structure of the university and its important role in improving the quality of educational and research activities of the university's affiliated faculties is one of the important issues for universities. Some universities have provided simple models for classifying scientific group, but there is still no coherent and complete system for ranking scientific groups in universities. The main purpose of this study was to provide a suitable model for ranking scientific groups in universities and higher education centers in the country. In this qualitative research, the methods of qualitative content analysis and semi-structured interviews were used. Qualitative content analysis was done inductively and semi-structured interviews were conducted with research participants on the topic and how to rate and rank categories and subcategories. To analyze the data obtained from semi-structured interviews, interpretive analysis method was used and finally the components of the model and their scores were extracted. Mission, goals, organizational position; training courses and curricula and non-curricula; science Committee; Students; Learning / teaching strategies; educational facilities and equipment; theses and dissertations, seminars, research contracts of chairs and graduates were components of the ranking model of scientific group in Iranian universities and higher education centers.The results of this ranking model can be used for all scientific groups and fields of study. It will also be useful to develop this model in the form of a mechanized system for different uses such as comparing academic departments in universities and leveling faculties.