The networked instructor: The quality of networks in different stages of professional development

Abstract

This article focuses on the quality of instructional networks in different stages of professional development. Drawing theoretically from social capital theory and literature on teacher interaction, we conducted in-depth interviews with 30 instructors at the university level. Using qualitative social network analysis to capture and analyze networks, we found that the quality of instructors’ interactions varied across developmental stages (novice, experienced non-expert, and expert instructors), both in terms of interdependence and opportunities for value creation. These findings offer valuable leverage for shaping educators’ everyday professional development and increasing teaching capacity through quality interaction.