Validation of the Cooperative Culture Model for Job Seekers and University Graduates

Abstract

The present study aims to validate the cooperative culture model for job seekers and university graduates. This study is applied in terms of purpose and follows a quantitative approach using a survey method. The statistical sample of the study consists of 276 individuals, including entrepreneurship students, entrepreneurship graduates, student cooperative companies, and university faculty members, who were randomly selected. The research data were collected using a questionnaire, and confirmatory factor analysis was employed for data analysis. The validity of the questionnaire was confirmed through convergent and divergent validity, and its reliability was verified using Cronbach's alpha (0.896). The model constructs were then examined using descriptive and inferential statistics through structural equation modeling (SEM) with the help of SPSS and LISREL software. According to the research findings, the Goodness of Fit Index (GFI) and the Adjusted Goodness of Fit Index (AGFI) for the dimension of open and transparent communications were 0.91 and 0.90, respectively, while the Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) was 0.048. For the dimension of empowerment and independence of graduates, the GFI and AGFI values were 0.91 and 0.90, respectively, with an RMSEA of 0.047. For the dimension of support and backing for cooperatives, the GFI and AGFI values were 0.91 and 0.90, respectively, and the RMSEA was 0.049. For the dimension of common goals and objectives, the GFI and AGFI values were 0.91 and 0.90, respectively, with an RMSEA of 0.049. Therefore, the results indicated that the model dimensions fit the data satisfactorily. These findings emphasize that the cooperative culture model aligns well with real-world data, and these key themes can be considered effective factors in the development and strengthening of cooperatives, as well as enhancing group collaboration among university graduates and job seekers.