Improving Structures, Improving Cultures: Exploring the Potential of Networked Learning Systems

• In Event: Learning and Teaching: Exploring Preparation, Mentorship, and Partnership for School Effectiveness

Abstract

This paper focuses on established Research-Practice Partnerships supporting school and district improvements through cultural and structural change. This involves resetting roles and responsibilities in the field by building strong lateral relationships that underpin the concept of a Networked Learning System (Madrid Miranda and Chapman, 2021).

Using mixed methods, this paper reports three case studies involving schools/districts in Scotland. The findings highlight the role of system leaders as boundary spanners that build high levels of trust working as reticulists in ambiguous spaces to support mutual self-improvements across schools and districts.

This study has important implications for new understandings about the nature of professional learning and leadership necessary to support the development of egalitarian, self-improving cultures that promote Networked Learning Systems.

Authors

• Christopher James Chapman, University of Glasgow

• Michalis Constantinides, University of Glasgow

• Romina Madrid Miranda, University of Stirling