This study aims to identify effective strategies for enhancing Media and Information Literacy (MIL) in Iran, with a specific focus on the roles played by government agencies, the formal education system, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The research adopts a qualitative approach, grounded in Strauss and Corbin’s grounded theory methodology, to explore the complex dynamics shaping MIL development. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 30 experts from various sectors, including education, media, policy-making, and civil society. The data analysis followed three coding stages: open, axial, and selective. During the open coding phase, key concepts such as the lack of specialization in MIL, insufficient teacher training, and inadequate educational resources emerged. In the axial coding phase, broader thematic categories were identified, including the educational ecosystem, institutional infrastructure, policy environment, and cultural adaptation. The selective coding phase resulted in a set of strategic recommendations, highlighting the need for legal reforms, cross-sectoral coordination, and the integration of localized content into national curricula.
Findings show that governmental efforts to promote MIL have included the creation of educational content, the organization of student competitions, the development of digital learning platforms, and initiatives to raise awareness among youth. The tenth grade was specifically emphasized as a pivotal stage for nurturing critical thinking and digital literacy skills. Key institutions involved in these efforts include the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, and the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB). Despite these efforts, the absence of coherent digital policies, limited teacher capacity, and institutional fragmentation continue to undermine progress.
The study concludes that strengthening MIL in Iran requires a comprehensive, multi-stakeholder approach involving content localization, educator training, infrastructure development, and enhanced cooperation among government agencies, NGOs, and educational institutions.