The Effect of Social Network Density and Discussion Quality Among Network Members on Teacher Learning

• In Event: Moscone Center North Roundtable Session 3
  In Roundtable Session: The Social Side of Educational Change

Abstract

We investigate the combined effect of social network density and discussion quality among network members on teacher learning in a multi-school network. A social network survey was administered to 101 teachers and leaders in five schools involved in one Community of Learning network. Our social network analysis established the density of networks for advice-seeking and collaboration on data analysis, and the close relationship, resource-sharing, and professional encouragement ties. We then investigated the relationship between those networks, and the variables of collective involvement, discussion quality and teacher learning. Our initial analyses suggest that the density of advice and collaboration networks, together with both collective efficacy and high quality discussion (that is rigorous and productive) is associated with teacher learning.

Authors

• Claire Sinnema, The University of Auckland

• Alan J. Daly, University of California - San Diego

• Yi-Hwa Liou, National Taipei University of Education

• Joelle Rodway, Memorial University of Newfoundland