Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 Ph.D. Candidate in Educational Administration, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran.
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Educational Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
3 Ph.D. Candidate in Educational Administration, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
4 Professor, Department of Educational Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran.
Abstract
Purpose: In recent years, the requirement for doctoral students to publish an article as a prerequisite for thesis defense has become one of the most challenging issues in Iran's higher education system. The present study aimed to investigate the advantages, disadvantages, and challenges of this phenomenon from the perspective of doctoral students and graduates.
Method: This study was conducted using a qualitative approach and thematic analysis. Participants included 25 doctoral students and graduates who were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews and continued until theoretical saturation was reached. Data analysis was performed using Attride-Stirling's (2001) thematic analysis method, which led to the identification of 347 basic themes, 27 organizing themes, and 10 global themes.
Findings: The findings were obtained in three sections: Advantages (four main themes including curriculum vitae enhancement, improvement of research skills, assistance in job acquisition, and sharing in the development of knowledge); Disadvantages (including two main themes: prolonged study duration and reduced quality and authenticity of the dissertation); and Challenges (including four main themes: systemic challenges, structural barriers, psychological challenges, and skill based challenges).
Conclusion: The key finding of the study indicated that in the absence of necessary infrastructures and supports, the disadvantages outweigh the advantages. Although article publication can have benefits, turning it into a mandate without considering capacities leads to phenomena such as unethical behaviors and a decline in the quality of research outputs. It is suggested that university support be increased in this path, and creating flexible pathways for graduation seems essential.
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