Designing and Validating of the Scale of Virtuousness-Based Leadership in the Education of Iran

Background: The present study is a small step in designing and validating a virtue-led leadership scale in Iranian higher education. Objectives: The purpose of this study was designing and validating a scale of virtuous leadership in the education of Iran. So far, extensive and wide efforts have been made in this regard but to date. It seems that there is no comprehensive and credible scale that ca n be valid and from a practical point of view that can be validated and practically guides faculty and faculty in professional practice. Method: The research method was descriptive-correlation with emphasis on structural equations. To accomplish the purpose, two studies were conducted, first a theoretical study through which the basic themes were extracted and important research related to the topic, then the validation process and the scale adequacy were determined. The study population consisted of all faculty members of Shiraz University, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz and Persian Gulf University of Bushehr. Samples were selected using multistage Random Sampling Method in a total of 370 samples. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire of Virtuousness Oriented Leadership. Results: This questionnaire was developed based on theoretical and research studies in 53 items with basic personal (personality, skill) and organizational factors. Cronbach s alpha coefficient of 0.92 was obtained. Face and content validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by experts. Data were analyzed using SPSS and LISREL software. Conclusion: The results showed that the scale studied is valid. Thus individual factors with personality, skill and organizational factors are appropriate for designing a Virtuousness Oriented Leadership scale in the education.