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Teacher social networks

Work it Out: Collaborative Teacher Networks Make Positive Impact

Research characterizing the ways in which public school teachers collaborate with each other is divided. From one perspective, teachers work in isolation from their colleagues and have little connection to fellow teachers even in nearby classrooms. From another perspective, unique and productive professionally-based group norms do get developed as teams of teachers work together to improve instruction.

Research aside, many working in public schools notice huge differences in the levels of teacher professional community, as we often hear stories of both isolated and highly collegial teachers. Social network analysis is the study of relationships, often those within bounded organizations. Teacher collegiality, when conversations stay positive and productive, is a possible sign that a school is headed toward instructional improvement. JIU professor Dr. Ted Purinton explores this topic in this full-length article.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: TEACHER SOCIAL NETWORKS

  • Teacher professional environment and student achievement go hand-in-hand.
  • Definitions of collegiality and collaboration have varied.
  • Policies meant to encourage collegiality have a questionable record of success.
  • Collegiality cannot be forced or controlled.
  • Negative “lounge” conversations can strongly influence teacher attitudes across whole campuses.
  • Give teachers the right instructional goals to work for and their networks will strengthen.