Social Network Theory and Educational Change

by Alan J. Daly (Editor), Judith Warren Little (Foreword)

Social Network Theory and Educational Change offers a provocative and fascinating exploration of how social networks in schools can impede or facilitate the work of education reform. Drawing on the work of leading scholars, the book comprises a series of studies examining networks among teachers and school leaders, contrasting formal and informal organizational structures, and exploring the mechanisms by which ideas, information, and influence flow from person to person and group to group. The case studies provided in the book reflect a rich variety of approaches and methodologies, showcasing the range and power of this dynamic new mode of analysis. An introductory chapter places social network theory in context and explains the basic tools and concepts, while a concluding chapter points toward new directions in the field. Taken together, they make a powerful that the success or failure of education reform ultimately is not solely the result of technical plans and blueprints, but of the relational ties that support or constrain the pace, depth, and direction of change. This unique volume provides an invaluable introduction to an emerging and increasingly important field of education research.


Contributors Stephen P. Borgatti and Brandon Ofem; Cynthia E. Coburn, Linda Choi, and Willow Mata; Allison Atteberry and Anthony S. Bryk; Russell P. Cole and Elliot H. Weinbaum; Nienke M. Moolenaar and Peter Sleegers; Kira J. Baker-Doyle and Susan A. Yoon; James P. Spillane, Kaleen Healey, and Chong Min Kim; William R. Penuel, Kenneth A. Frank, and Ann Krause; Kara Finnigan and Alan J. Daly; Julie M. Hite, Steven J. Hite, Christopher B. Mugimu, and Yusuf Nsubuga; Kenneth A. Frank, Chong Min Kim, and Dale Belman; Jorge Ávila de Lima.

Genres: Education

344 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2010

Reviews

[Sarah Jenkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really like this book! I found it to be thoughtful and had a lot of good ideas and studies in education. I would highly recommend it to practicing educators as well as education professors.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found the book to be really interesting and provide insights into both practice and educational change--I think it is a really nice edition to the field of educational change--in addition I think the idea of social networks is growing and this book helped me to better understand their role in how schools/districts change.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book to be very useful in both my work as an educator as well as my own practice. I found it to be clear and straightforward with information I could readily understand and apply. I think that social networks will play a more important role in education

[Jose · Rating 5 out of 5]

VERY interesting book--gave me a new perspective on education and educational change. I found it to be easy to read and loaded with great insights for teachers, principals, and professors in education departments. This should be mandatory reading for educators who want to make real change!

[Toni · Rating 2 out of 5]

Totally over my head and I'll have to read it again to figure out what I read the first time!