Developing a Public Policy Model for IT-Based Education in Municipalities of Iranian Metropolises: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

This study aims to design a public policy model for information technology-based education in the municipalities of Iranian metropolises using a qualitative research approach and grounded theory methodology. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 16 academic elites and senior managers and were analyzed until theoretical saturation was achieved. The coding process included three stages: open, axial, and selective coding, ultimately leading to the extraction of six main categories and 106 subcategories. The findings revealed that employee participation, a participatory organizational culture, transparency in actions, and the development of cultural-educational programs are among the key factors in formulating effective policies. Furthermore, legal and environmental barriers—such as economic challenges and the absence of feedback mechanisms—exert a significant influence on the policy-making process. The proposed strategies were formulated across three levels: short-term (motivational and behavioral), mid-term (research-based and social), and long-term (cultural and legal). The results emphasize that aligning educational programs with organizational needs and strengthening management information systems plays a fundamental role in enhancing the quality of IT-based educational policymaking. By presenting a localized model, this study offers a practical framework for urban policymakers to optimize educational processes.