Criteria for Evaluating Faculty Members Based on Expectations of Beneficiaries in Tabriz University of Medical Sciences: A qualitative study

Objective: This study aimed to identify the evaluation criteria used for faculty members’ evaluation, as viewed from the perspective of various stakeholders at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. Methods: The present study is a qualitative investigation that was carried out at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. The study employed 74 semi-structured interviews in addition to a focused group discussion that involved students, graduates, faculty members, as well as experts. Participants for this research were chosen using the Purposive Sampling technique, and the data were evaluated through content analysis methodology. The interviews were recorded with participants' informed consent and transcribed verbatim. Subsequent analysis of all data started with the first interview session. Results: Participants had expectations about the evaluation of faculty members categorized into scientific and technical features and moral and behavioral characteristics. The scientific and technical features included Scientific and practical capability, Scientific records, and Teaching methods, while the moral and behavioral features consisted of Professional ethics and behavior, Communication skills, and Ethics and Behavior. Conclusion: Based on the results, it is essential to adopt systemic approaches in evaluating professors that would consider various technical, human, and perceptual aspects. Management of the evaluation process considering environmental and structural features is also necessary to improve its effectiveness.