Designing and Identifying the Components of the School-University Linkage Model: Integrating Theory and Practice

Hajkhozeymh, Mojtaba

doi:10.22034/jei.2026.544683.3301

Designing and Identifying the Components of the School-University Linkage Model: Integrating Theory and Practice

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Mojtaba Hajkhozeymh

Assistant Professor, Department of Educational Administration, Farhangian University, P.O. Box 14665-889, Tehran, Iran

10.22034/jei.2026.544683.3301

Abstract

The relationship between the university, as a knowledge-producing institution, and the school, as the primary teaching–learning environment, plays a crucial role in enhancing educational quality, training professional teachers, and fostering meaningful learning. Accordingly, the present study was conducted with the aim of designing and identifying the components of a university–school partnership model with an emphasis on integrating theory and practice. This research is applied in purpose and exploratory qualitative in nature, conducted through a phenomenological approach. The study population consisted of faculty members and experienced teachers, from whom 18 individuals were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analyzed through content and thematic analysis. Validity and reliability were also examined. The results revealed that educational linkages (development of collaborative and professional learning, and practicum), research linkages (research projects and futures studies), strategic linkages (curriculum planning and shared vision), and behavioral linkages (networking, guidance and counseling, and professional ethics) are key components of the university–school partnership model with an emphasis on the integration of theory and practice. Therefore, it is recommended that educational policymakers establish a formal network of collaborative schools that are structurally connected to Farhangian University, in such a way that these schools serve as bases for conducting educational research and hosting the practicum of student teachers. In addition, the establishment of intermediary bodies at the national or regional level is suggested to translate universities’ research findings into practical, school-applicable implementation packages.

Keywords

School-University Linkage

Integrating Theory and Practice

Farhangian University

Qualitative research

Phenomenological method

Subjects

Educational, curricular and training planning based on the national curriculum document

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