Determination of Factors Affecting Motivation of Activity in Cooperatives: A Case Study of Agricultural Production Cooperatives\' Managers in Tehran Province of Iran

     This study aims at investigating the factors affecting the motivation of activity in cooperatives, in a descriptive correlational method, to help resolve the problems in cooperatives. The statistical sample includes 72 m anagers of agricultural production cooperatives in Tehran province. Data collection is based on a valid and reliable questionnaire. As shown by the descriptive information obtained, only 43 percent of the cooperatives' managers have strong motivation for activity in this sector. In addition, according to the results of regression analysis, three variables including social characteristics, frequency of applying educational and extensional activities and entrepreneurial aspects account for 49 percent of the variance of such motivation. Accordingly, it is suggested that authorities of these cooperatives pave the ground for their further success through holding some entrepreneurship courses as well as expanding cooperative extension and education services, particularly in public places like Basij (Mobilization Unit), mosques, sports places, cultural centers, and charity houses.