Making Sense of Social Networks in Schools

By Terrance E. Deal, Ted Purinton & Daria Cook Waetjen

Social networks reflect the usually invisible relationships that control the power and flow of information within a school. This resource for school leaders examines types of networks—related to tasks, friendships, power and culture—and provides tools for maximizing networks' positive schoolwide influence. You will find:

• Samples of social network maps that illustrate the relationships among players in various types of networks
• Steps for developing your own social network maps using interviews, surveys and data analysis
• Strategies and practical advice for managing social networks in support of school goals