درخت حوزه‌های تخصصی

This study examined the impact of argumentation on learning approach and critical thinking (inference and interpretation) in English for Specific Purposes (ESP) classes among Islamic studies or seminary students in Mashhad. It was conducted in two classes: an experimental group and a control group, each with 12 female students. Data for the study were collected using pretest and posttest assessments of the Critical Thinking Appraisal (CTA) and a learning approach questionnaire. The Farsi version of Watson-Glaser’s Critical Thinking Appraisal (CTA) was used to measure participants’ inference-making and deduction. Bigg’s Study Process Questionnaire (SPQ) was employed to assess participants’ learning approaches, measuring two broad approaches: deep approach and surface approach, with four subscales: surface strategy (SS), surface motive (SM), deep strategy (DS), and deep motive (DM). The experimental group received instruction based on logical argumentation as the treatment. The results demonstrated the effectiveness of the argumentation method in improving participants’ learning approach and critical thinking (inference and interpretation). Specifically, the results of the independent samples t-test indicated a statistically significant difference between the two groups in the degree of their Inference (t = 2.33, p = .03), Interpretation (t = 2.25, p = .03), Deep Approach (t = 2.88, p = .01), and Surface Approach (t = -2.16, p = .04) after the treatment. The findings of this study can be beneficial for teachers of Islamic propagators in enhancing their students’ learning approach and critical thinking through the use of argumentative instruction.

Objective: The present research aimed to study the lived experience of mothers on the verge of separation and to explore the phenomenon of separation and divorce from their perspective. Method: It was a qualitative study with a phenomenological method among mothers on the verge of separation in Isfahan city. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection in this research. Participants included 15 mothers on the verge of separation in Isfahan city in the year 2021, using purposive sampling, and the operations of data collection and analysis were conducted simultaneously. Findings: According to the analysis and the extracted main and sub-categories, the story of mothers on the verge of separation can be narrated within 5 overarching themes. The results of this research, from among 180 thematic sentences from the statements of mothers on the verge of separation about their experiences, eventually classified 5 overarching themes and 15 organizing themes that form the network of themes. The overarching and organizing themes in this research include communication problems (relationships with children, relationships with spouses), parenting (children's financial problems, defective parenting style, child management), emotional and behavioral (emotional and behavioral problems of parents, emotional and behavioral problems of children), psychological, social, and economic support (family, lack of counseling, economic) and exacerbating factors (extramarital affairs, addiction, previous divorce experience, mental disorders, sexual dysfunction). Conclusions: The results showed that mothers on the verge of separation experience emotions that can affect their well-being and mental health. The findings highlight the necessity for psychologists and social workers to deeply understand the lived experiences of these individuals and to offer therapeutic interventions based on the themes emerged from the current study, focusing on improving their emotional state.

Objectives: This research aims to investigate the relationship between family firms and working capital management. Working capital management involves the management of current assets and liabilities to achieve a balance that maximizes shareholder returns on investments. Methodology/Design/Approach: This applied study employs a causal correlational methodology. The statistical population consists of all firms listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange. Using systematic elimination sampling, 136 firms were selected as the research sample and analyzed over a ten-year period from 2014 to 2023. Findings: The results indicate an inverse relationship between family firms and the cash conversion cycle. Additionally, there is a direct relationship between family firms and the period for collecting receivables. Furthermore, a direct relationship exists between family firms and the inventory turnover period, while an inverse relationship is observed between family firms and the period for debt repayment. Innovation: This research contributes to the existing literature by providing insights into how family ownership influences working capital management practices. It highlights the unique dynamics of family firms in managing their operating cycles compared to non-family firms, offering practical implications for stakeholders in understanding how ownership structure can affect financial performance.