Designing a Conceptual Model for Flexible Short-Term Educational Planning in the Technical and Vocational Training Organization (TVTO) of Iran Somayeh Mohammadizad

Aim: Given the rapid changes in the labor market and the pivotal role of the Technical and Vocational Training Organization (TVTO) of Iran in providing a skilled workforce, it is essential to revise educational structures and processes in alignment with technological advancements and emerging job demands. Accordingly, this study aims to design a localized model for flexible short-term educational planning in TVTO, identifying and conceptualizing key components to develop a coherent and efficient framework for a swift response to skill needs.
Methodology: This study employed a mixed-methods approach with a sequential exploratory design. In the qualitative phase, data were collected through a phenomenological method and semi-structured interviews with eight experts in technical and vocational education, selected via purposive sampling. The data were then categorized using phenomenological analysis. In the quantitative phase, a descriptive-survey method was utilized, and a researcher-developed questionnaire was distributed among 251 instructors and experts selected through random sampling. The validity and reliability of the research instruments were confirmed through established methods, and the proposed model was evaluated using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and structural equation modeling (SEM). This mixed-methods approach provided an in-depth understanding of expert perspectives while enabling the generalization of findings to a broader population.
Results: The qualitative analysis of interviews identified three key dimensions—structural, procedural, and operational—as the most influential factors in educational planning flexibility. The results of factor analysis (with factor loadings of 0.72, 0.68, and 0.65) confirmed the central role of these dimensions, and model fit indices indicated the validity of the proposed framework. Additionally, the findings suggest that successful implementation of this model requires organizational restructuring, enhancement of monitoring and evaluation processes, and the development of operational infrastructures.
Conclusion and Recommendations: The study highlights that for TVTO to keep pace with technological advancements and labor market demands, a comprehensive redesign of its educational planning structures and processes is imperative. In this regard, the proposed model offers an operational framework that can significantly enhance the flexibility and effectiveness of educational planning.
Innovation and Originality: This study not only presents a localized model tailored to Iran’s specific conditions but also introduces new operational assessment criteria for evaluating flexibility. These contributions enrich the academic literature on flexible educational planning.