Educators' Professional Networks

• In Event: School Leadership and Networks

Abstract

In this essay, we consider the social networks through which research is distilled from researchers to practice within the field of education. We utilize peer-reviewed articles that consider these networks through social capital theory and social network analysis. By considering educational social networks through research practice partnerships, networked improvement communities, and design-based implementation research, it may be possible to draw attention to the challenges and possible strategies for successful implementation of partnerships that have the potential of more directly connecting researchers to practitioners and, thus, research to practice. It is our hope that further consideration of educators’ professional networks may lead to increases in collaboration between researchers and other educational stakeholders and contribute toward reducing the research-practice gap.

Author

• Sarah Lilly, University of Virginia