Modeling Collaboration with Social Network Models

Abstract

Social network models are used to infer relationships about networks, network structures, and other attributes. Many network models focus on inference about a single network and relate node- or tie-level covariates to ties. When network data involve multiple, independent networks, another type of network model is used that both generalizes the findings of single-network models and infers relationships at higher levels in the model, addressing new research questions. In this chapter, we present commonly used network models in education research and describe how these models can be used to inform research on collaboration and team dynamics.