Science popularization model in Iran: a Grounded Theory study

In recent years, generalization or the popularization of science has become very important in Iran. In addition to universities and academic centers, many other governmental and non-governmental institutions have also addressed the issue of science popularization. However, there is still no clear and universally accepted definition of the popularization of science. The purpose of this study was to develop a model for the popularization of science in Iran. In this study, a qualitative method with a Grounded Theory approach was used. Participants in the study were selected by purposive sampling method, which includes experts (including faculty members, professors, state representatives, heads of scientific, research institutes, and etc.). They participated in five focus groups consisting of ten people. The interview questions were designed based on several factors that led to develop the final model. According to this method and information gathered, a total of 129 initial concept-codes have were extracted from the textual analysis of the interviews. Extracted raw codes have become 61 secondary codes due to their frequencies, and then secondary codes have reduced to 12 concept-codes. According to these concept-codes, 6 sub-categories and 6 main categories were extracted. Based on the developed model, a common definition of science popularization, factors affecting of science popularization and also the effects of science popularization in society were identified. In addition, the role of science popularization strategies in creating positive outcomes of science popularization was explained.