Bringing Leaders Together: Social Capital Development in a Principal Network

• In Event: 54.080 - Roundtable Session 22
  In Roundtable Session: 54.080-3 - Leadership Roles in Various Settings

Abstract

Principals have complex and challenging jobs that require continuous learning and improvement. A growing body of research suggests that principals’ peer relationships are valuable sources of learning, but many principals lack opportunities to learn from colleagues outside of their schools. This longitudinal study reports on the implementation and effects of one district’s attempt to promote principal collaboration through a structure called affinity groups. It draws on a combination of observations of group interaction and interviews with a district’s principals (n=9). I use literature on social capital and collaboration to frame my investigation. Preliminary findings indicate that interaction in affinity groups provided principals with cognitive resources, such as leadership advice, and emotional resources, such as social support.

Author

• David Gilbert Sherer, Harvard University