Abstract
This study primarily applied Social Network Analysis (SNA) to explore the relationship between friendships, peer social interactions and group work dynamics within a Higher Education (HE) undergraduate programme in England. A critical case study design was adopted so to allow for an in-depth exploration of the students’ voice. In doing so, the views and perspectives of students were sought through a questionnaire. The study is informed by a social capital theory perspective along with the idea of student relational agency within a social network perspective. Data were analysed by using a combination of methods, including SNA, descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The initial findings suggest that students are, on the whole, positive about group work but, at the same time, acknowledge many potential barriers when working in groups. More importantly, a dynamic interrelationship between friendships/peer relationships and group work dynamics was found.
DOI
10.1080/0309877X.2017.1302568
Publication Date
2017-05-02
Publication Title
Journal of Further and Higher Education
Publisher
Informa UK Limited
ISSN
1469-9486
Embargo Period
2024-11-22
First Page
1
Last Page
16
Recommended Citation
Mamas, C. (2017) 'Exploring peer relationships, friendships and group work dynamics in higher education: applying social network analysis', Journal of Further and Higher Education, , pp. 1-16. Informa UK Limited: Available at: https://doi.org/10.1080/0309877X.2017.1302568
Comments
peerreview_statement: The publishing and review policy for this title is described in its Aims & Scope. aims_and_scope_url: http://www.tandfonline.com/action/journalInformation?show=aimsScope&journalCode=cjfh20