Strengthening Educational Research Curriculum Through Network Curriculum Analytics and Social Network Analysis

• In Event: Instructional Planning and Implementation

Abstract

This study addresses the lack of interconnectedness in network curriculum analytics, resulting from diverse faculty members' involvement in research curriculum design. Network curriculum analytics, specifically Social Network Analysis (SNA), was employed to analyze and visualize course and research courses and course topic networks. The study explored central topics bridging multiple courses, specific connectors between different topic clusters, and variations in topic connections across departments. Results showed distinct clusters, essential central topics, and pivotal courses acting as connectors. The findings inform curriculum design and development, promoting a cohesive and dynamic learning environment. Network curriculum analytics with SNA benefits instructors, students, and curriculum committees, enabling effective knowledge transmission and curriculum adaptation to educational research changes and trends.

Authors

• Nesma Ragab Nasr, Northern Arizona University

• Jennifer M. Werner, Arizona State University

• Hoda Harati, Towson University

• Cherng-Jyh Yen, Old Dominion University

• Patricia J. Peterson, Northern Arizona University

• Chih-Hsiung Tu, Northern Arizona University