When Time Gets in the Way: Understanding Time-Related Challenges in Improvement Networks

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Sunday 7:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Practicing Improvement: Challenges and Opportunities to Facilitating Improvement

Abstract

As organizations that are typically temporary, improvement networks are particularly susceptible to time-related challenges. This study examines how time can impede the progress of schools participating in such networks, drawing on data collected through a qualitative survey approach. Our analysis reveals that time-related challenges manifest in various forms and stem from a range of underlying causes. Furthermore, we found that the degree to which time serves as a barrier varies across networks, suggesting that some are more adept at mitigating these challenges than others. The strategies employed by these networks may inform best practices for conducting impactful networked improvement work.

Authors

• Angel Yee-lam Li, Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching

• Jennifer Zoltners Sherer, University of Pittsburgh

• Anthony S. Bryk, Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching