Identifying the Changes in Cultural Infrastructure towards Lifelong Learning: Professors’ Viewpoint

Introduction: In today civilization, the education trend moves towards lifelong learning. Lifelong learning could be used as a guiding principle in higher education; yet to fulfill this purpose, we need to establish lifelong learning in society. This article aimed to identify necessary changes in cultural infrastructure in order to shape a move towards lifelong learning. Method: This qualitative study was conducted in ۲۰۱۴ using content analysis approach. ۱۶ faculty members in University of Isfahan, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, and Kerman University of Medical Sciences with interest, experience, and background in the field of higher education, teaching, and learning, were selected for this study using purposive sampling method. To collect the data, semi-structured and open-ended interviews were used. For credibility and acceptability of the data, outside observer method was used. The data were analyzed using content analysis approach. Results: Four thematic categories were identified as some of the necessary changes in cultural infrastructure toward lifelong learning. The categories were as “individual learning and cultural values”, “learning and cultural mission of training centers”, “learning and cultural mission of family”, and “learning and cultural mission of the media.” Conclusion: The results of this research could be used for officials to give special attention to cultural infrastructures. Further qualitative studies can be useful in this regards.

Keywords:

Learning , Cultural background , University professor , Data analysis , qualitative research