Factors for Improving the Educational System with an Emphasis on the Alignment of Theory and Practice in the Thought of Imam Musa Sadr

Abstract

The present study, based on the factors for improving the educational system with an emphasis on the alignment of theory and practice in the thought of Imam Musa Sadr, employs an analytical and interpretive approach to identify and present Imam Musa Sadr’s educational system as a framework entirely founded on divine values and human virtues. Given the significance of the orientation of the educational system and the components utilized in designing its educational models in terms of their alignment with authentic religious criteria and the fulfillment of the objectives of this intellectual system, as well as for identifying the themes of Sadr's educational system, the study utilized 14 interviews, Imam Musa Sadr’s books, and expert lectures. The findings indicate that, in Sadr’s thought, in addition to the emphasis on inherent and divine dignity, as well as the spiritual and psychological aspects of human existence, and the active and sovereign role of God in the educational system, five sub-themes have been identified as factors for improving the educational system: (1) the foundations of the nature of the educational system (Sadr’s perspectives and insights), (2) the principles of the educational system (the philosophy of Sadr’s educational system), (3) the pillars of Sadr’s educational system (the characteristics or indicators of Sadr’s educational system), (4) the structure of Sadr’s educational system, and (5) the system’s attention to learners’ issues (educational programs). Accordingly, the improvement of the educational system, with an emphasis on the alignment of theory and practice in the thought of Imam Musa Sadr, was carried out in such a way that its components interact adequately with each other to yield practical outcomes in implementation.