Balance between teaching and research activities in agricultural higher education: A qualitative content analysis

One of the main challenges in the field of agricultural higher education is finding a balance between teaching and research activities. The main goal of this study was to analyze the content of this balance in the field of agriculture. To achieve this goal, a systematic review method was used in the form of qualitative interpretive content analysis. After searching and evaluating relevant studies, 125 studies were considered as the final sample. Relevant research evidence was identified and extracted from reputable databases (Science Direct, Google Scholar, Jihad University Scientific Information Center, Civilica, and Mogiran). The analysis of the results showed that the components of the balance between teaching and research in agricultural higher education include current activities in the classroom, current processes in the structure of higher education system, existing infrastructure in the higher education system, interaction of agricultural faculties with the surrounding environment, resources and time, collaboration and interaction, evaluation and accreditation, and organizational culture are the factors contributing to or lack of balance between teaching and research. In this regard, to maintain the balance between teaching and research, it is necessary for three key factors, including curriculum relevant to current agricultural issues, faculty members, and students, to pay attention to this issue; furthermore, the attention of policymakers is also essential to create a suitable balance in this area.