Scaling-Up Higher Education Innovations with Network Organizations: Social Network Analysis of the Competency-Based Education Network

• In Event: Division D Graduate Student in Progress Research Gala

Abstract

While policymakers, practitioners, and researchers promote networks as important in scaling educational innovations, there is limited higher education research on how networks spread new ideas. Social network analysis (SNA) is used to examine how network organizations influence the spread of new practices across postsecondary institutions. This study focuses on the Competency-Based Education Network (C-BEN), a membership organization formed to catalyze adoption of new CBE practices. Relational leadership theories guide the inquiry with research questions aiming to describe: (a) the association between collaborative ties and implemented CBE practices; and, (b) how C-BEN influences social capital and the spread of CBE practices.

Author

• Bruce William Haupt, University of Kentucky