Designing a paradigmatic model of digital leadership for managers at Islamic Azad University of Tehran province: a mixed methods approach

Abstract

The present study was conducted with the aim of providing a digital leadership model for managers at Islamic Azad University of Tehran Province. The research method was applied in terms of purpose and mixed exploratory (qualitative-quantitative) in terms of data, and in terms of nature, it was systematic data-based (paradigmatic) in the qualitative dimension and cross-sectional survey in the quantitative dimension. The statistical population of the qualitative section included professors and experts in the field of human resources with specialized doctoral degrees, and in the quantitative section, all university presidents, their deputies, heads of faculties and heads of educational groups with specialized doctoral degrees and the academic rank of assistant professor and above in educational sciences at Islamic Azad University of Tehran Province, totaling 270 people. The sampling method in the qualitative section was purposeful theoretical saturation, and 15 expert people were selected. In the quantitative section, the sample size was determined based on the Morgan formula as 159 people. In the present study, after open and axial coding, the resulting measurement tool was formatted and sent to experts for selective coding and validity. Based on this, a researcher-made questionnaire was designed and distributed randomly among the study population. Then, the collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and finally, 5 dimensions, 17 components and 121 indicators were identified for the digital leadership model for managers of educational organizations. After final approval and prioritization by experts, the dimensions, components and indicators of the model were illustrated, and the model was re-validated by experts.