Cooperative person in a context of educational and social transformation

Abstract

The objective of this article is to define and characterize the profile called “Cooperative Person” (CP) in educational institutions, university faculties and enterprises within the cooperative educational ambit of the cooperativist ecosystem in the Basque Country. To achieve this objective, qualitative research was conducted using Grounded Theory. Although this is not a new concept, the literature review of main databases (WOS, Scopus...) has not provided a clear definition or characterization of the profile. Thus, 4 semi-structured interviews, non participant panoramic observations (14 sessions, 30 professionals) and internal document analysis were carried out in 3 of the organizations participating in the study. Triangulation and analysis of data were performed using the constant comparative method, until theoretical saturation was achieved. The research work has allowed, on the one hand, to place individual, cooperative and community values and attitudes as a central category and, on the other, to classify it into three main conceptual categories: to be self sufficient, to exercise cooperation and to be socio-community entrepreneur. We believe that this work can contribute to establishing the basis for the development of the CP profile and its evaluation, with the implementation of educational programs associated with the personal, relational and socio community dimensions that define it the profile.