Social Network Analysis for School Librarians to Evaluate and Improve Teacher Collaboration

Abstract

This paper describes doctoral research that sought to determine if school librarians could use social network analysis as an evaluative and strategic planning tool. The study used a mixed-methods approach to develop and pilot test the Social Network Analysis for School Librarians (SNASL) Process in two secondary schools (ages 11-18) using participatory analysis. Analysis revealed that the SNASL Process has the potential to enable school librarians to evaluate and improve upon the collaborative network of their school by identifying individuals in specific role positions and producing generative insight regarding the structure of the school network.