Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Prof, Department of Geography, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Shahid Chamran University, Ahvaz, Iran
2 Associate Professor of Geography and Urban Planning, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
3 Ph.D. Student, Department of Geography, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
4 Assistant Prof, Department of Geography, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
Abstract
The realization of a learning city is a novel urban management approach crucial for sustainable development and enhancing citizens' quality of life. This study aimed to analyze key managerial drivers for realizing a learning city in Bandar Mahshahr and to examine the relationship between managerial indicators and educational level improvement. The sample included 384 citizens and 20 urban experts, with data collected via questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative and qualitative methods such as descriptive analysis, Pearson correlation, multiple regression, path analysis, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM), and MICMAC analysis were used. Results showed that spiritual (β=0.36) and knowledge (β=0.32) indicators had the strongest direct positive effects on educational advancement. Social and economic indicators also had positive effects, while political and environmental indicators had no significant direct effect but influenced social and spiritual indicators indirectly. ISM revealed a three-level driver structure: political and environmental indicators as foundational drivers, social and economic indicators as intermediate, and knowledge and spiritual indicators as final outcomes. MICMAC cluster analysis supported this structure. Findings emphasize the importance of a multidimensional strategic approach in urban management and suggest that strengthening foundational political and environmental drivers, developing social and economic indicators, and focusing on spiritual and knowledge dimensions can greatly accelerate education improvement and learning city realization in Bandar Mahshahr. This research provides a scientific and practical basis for policymaking in similar cities.
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