Strategic Studies of Culture

Strategic Studies of Culture

Analysis of Mosque-Centered Schools as a Model of Form-Content Transformation in Education: A Case Study of Masjedestan School in Tehran and Hazrat Ruhollah School in Mashhad

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Political Sociology, Islamic Studies and Political Science, Imam Sadiq University
2 Department of Communications and Media, Faculty of Culture and Communication, Imam Sadiq University (Peace Be Upon Him)
10.22083/scsj.2026.556228.1327
Abstract
This study aims to elucidate the model of curriculum implementation in mosque-centered schools with a form-content transformation approach, focusing on a case study of two schools, Masjedestan and Hazrat Ruhollah. These schools, as transformative models within the country’s formal education system, were established to address educational and moral gaps in line with the implementation of the Fundamental Transformation Document of Education and the National Curriculum Document. The research method is descriptive-analytical with a qualitative approach, utilizing a combination of documentary analysis, semi-structured interviews, and field observations for data collection, with data analysis conducted through thematic analysis and the theme network approach. The study seeks to answer the central question: What model do mosque-centered schools with a form-content transformation approach use for curriculum implementation? The findings indicate that the curriculum implementation model in these schools is based on three main pillars: “human factors,” “educational environment,” and “methods and executive strategies.” Human factors include the pivotal role of the principal in guidance, coordination, and fostering close relationships with teachers and students, as well as the role of teachers in holistic education, characterized by a jihadist spirit, proficiency in Islamic knowledge, and flexibility in implementation. The spiritual and intimate educational environment of the mosque, the use of participatory, practical, and personalized education, and continuous, multidimensional, and process-oriented evaluation that reduces exam anxiety and facilitates learning are other elements of the curriculum implementation model in these schools. This model, by emphasizing family participation, facilitates efficient curriculum implementation. However, the lack of curriculum transparency in these schools and the resulting criticism from some experts highlight the need for further research and support to strengthen these schools in line with Islamic civilization-building.
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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 16 February 2026