Structural Equation Modeling of Knowledge Conversion Process upon Intellectual Capital Components in Isfahan Universities, Iran

Introduction: Moving toward progress in every country starts from universities. Intellectual 
capital is a very strong theory that all knowledge-based organizations can utilize to improve their 
efficacy and productivity. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the structural equation 
modeling of knowledge conversion process upon intellectual capital components in public 
universities of Isfahan, Iran. 
Methods: This descriptive, correlational study included 1472 faculty members of Isfahan public 
universities during the academic year of 2010-2011. The sample size was calculated as 205 
individuals by stratified random sampling. In order to collect data, the 26-item standard 
knowledge conversion process questionnaire and a 35-item researcher-made questionnaire of 
intellectual capital components were used. Content and face validity of both questionnaires were 
confirmed by the experts. In order to evaluate the reliability of the questionnaires, Cronbach's 
alpha was calculated as 0.96 and 0.93, respectively. Statistical analyses of data were performed 
by multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and structural equation model using SPSS and 
Amos Graphic. 
Results: According to MANOVA, socialization and knowledge combination were not 
significantly related with any of the intellectual capital components. However, different stages of 
knowledge conversion and externalization had significant relations with all intellectual capital 
components. Based on the structural equation model, correlation coefficient of all stages of 
knowledge conversion on intellectual capital components were significant. 
Conclusion: Knowledge conversion can be useful in data extraction, management, transfer, and 
exchange among faculty members. It can also promote intellectual capital in universities