The Rise and Fall of Influential Expertise: Disentangling Tie Formation and Dissolution in a Professional Learning School Network

• In Event: Organizational Effects Examining Academic Achievement and Student Support

Abstract

This study responds to the increasing call for a more social approach to school improvement by investigating interpersonal relationships among educators within a professional learning school in Taiwan. Drawing from social capital theory and the use of longitudinal social network data and analysis (ST/ERGMs), this mixed-methods case study examines the structure of professional relationships at one urban fringe school in Taiwan. Findings suggest several structural, individual and dyadic effects of social, relational and cognitive components on the formation, preservation, and dissolution of professional ties, and divergent views on how educators go about engaging in professional communities. The study contributes to existing knowledge base on professional learning communities and networks and further informs directions for policy, practice, and future research.

Authors

• Yi-Hwa Liou, National Taipei University of Education

• Peter Bjorklund, University of California - San Diego