Reviewing Mixed Methods Approaches Using Social Network Analysis for Learning and Education

Abstract

Across the globe researchers are using social network analysis (SNA) to better understand the visible and invisible relations between people. While substantial progress has been made in the last 20 years in terms of quantitative modelling and processing techniques of SNA, there is an increased call for SNA researchers to embrace and mix methods developed in qualitative research to understand the what, how, and why questions of social network relations. In this chapter, we will reflect on our experiences with our latest edited book called Mixed Methods Approaches to Social Network Analysis for Learning and Education, which contained contributions from 20+ authors. We will first review the empirical literature of mixed methods social network analysis (MMSNA) by conducting a systematic literature review. Secondly, by using two case studies from our own practice, we will critically reflect on how we have used MMSNA approaches. Finally, we will discuss the potential limitations of MMSNA approaches, in particular given the complexities of mastering two ontologically different methods.