The Structure Dynamics of Beliefs or the Beliefs Dynamics of Structure? Longitudinal Study of Leadership Networks and Personal Beliefs

• In Event: 64.086 - MTCC Roundtable Session 27
  In Roundtable Session: 64.086-1 - Lessons Learned From Leadership Collaboration and Development

Abstract

This study addresses important social processes through which educational leaders come to understand the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). We investigate the coevolution of social networks among educational leaders and their personal beliefs about CCSS at time points using the Siena models. Data include a districtwide leadership team in one school district in southern California that has completed the study over time. Findings suggest dynamic processes of tie formation and adaption of beliefs about CCSS as well as homophilous tendencies in forming relationships around CCSS. This study sheds new light on complex social processes through which educational leaders go about implementing reform and contributes to the convention theme highlighting interplay between research and field knowledge in informing leadership and improvement.

Author

• Yi-Hwa Liou, National Taipei University of Education