Presenting a Model for Strengthening Persian Language and Literature in Line with the Development of Iranian Culture and Civilization

Abstract

This study aimed to develop and validate a model for strengthening Persian language and literature in line with the development of Iranian culture and civilization and to determine the contribution of its constituent dimensions. A sequential mixed-methods design was employed in qualitative and quantitative phases. In the qualitative phase, thematic analysis within an interpretive paradigm was used, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews with experts in cultural management and Persian language and literature. The data were analyzed through reviewing, organizing, coding, categorizing, and developing subcategories and major themes, resulting in seven dimensions and 33 components. In the quantitative phase, a researcher-made questionnaire based on a five-point Likert scale was administered to 385 participants from the relevant academic community. Content, face, and construct validity as well as instrument reliability were assessed. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted using LISREL, while complementary statistical analyses were performed using SPSS. The KMO value was 0.879, and Bartlett’s test was statistically significant (p<0.001), confirming sampling adequacy for factor analysis. All factor loadings and structural coefficients were significant at the 95% confidence level. The standardized factor loadings were 0.72 for preservation of Iranian cultural values, 0.89 for expansion of Islam and reinforcement of Islamic cultural values, 0.87 for preservation and advancement of Persian language and literature, 0.77 for preservation and elevation of Iranian culture and civilization, 0.93 for preservation of Iranian cultural identity, 0.91 for development of Iranian culture and civilization, and 0.84 for global expansion of Persian language and literature. Preservation of Iranian cultural identity explained the largest proportion of variance (R²=0.86), whereas preservation of Iranian cultural values explained the smallest proportion (R²=0.52). Model-fit indices indicated acceptable fit (χ²/df=2.752, RMSEA=0.074, PNFI=0.588, GFI=0.90, NFI=0.91, and CFI=0.92). The validated model indicates that strengthening Persian language and literature is a multidimensional process closely associated with cultural identity, Iranian and Islamic values, civilizational advancement, and the international dissemination of Persian. Preservation of Iranian cultural identity and development of Iranian culture and civilization emerged as the most influential dimensions. Accordingly, cultural and educational policies should integrate linguistic preservation with identity reinforcement and employ the capacities of Persian language and literature as instruments for sustainable cultural and civilizational development.