Developing a Policy Model for the Role of Social Capital in Enhancing Citizen Awareness (Case Study: Students of Farhangian University, Hamedan)

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to develop a policy model for the role of social capital in enhancing citizen awareness among students of Farhangian University in Hamedan. Methodology: The present study is applied in terms of its objective and correlational-descriptive in terms of data collection. The statistical population consisted of all student-teachers at Farhangian University in Hamedan, from which a sample of 305 individuals was selected using Cochran’s formula and a proportional stratified sampling method. Data were collected through a questionnaire designed in line with the research objective. Data analysis was performed using SMART PLS and SPSS software. Findings: The reliability coefficients of the questionnaires, measured by Cronbach’s alpha, were as follows: social network relationships (0.769), awareness and information (0.721), social trust (0.741), social cooperation and participation (0.791), social capital (0.746), awareness of citizenship rights (0.964), awareness of civic duties (0.882), and enhancement of citizen awareness (0.957). Pearson’s correlation coefficient and structural equation modeling were used to analyze the data. The results indicated a significant relationship between social capital and the enhancement of citizen awareness among student-teachers. Conclusion: Consequently, a coherent policy model was ultimately proposed based on theoretical and practical findings.