Curators and sojourners in learning networks: Practices for transformation

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Organizational Studies
• Systems Thinking

Background:

• Networks are recognized as key drivers for achieving systemic change.
• Existing research lacks a detailed examination of the specific roles and practices that enable networks to build transformative capacity.
• Understanding these network dynamics is crucial for effective systemic change initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a framework for analyzing network structures, roles, and practices.
• To identify common network substructures and critical practices within them.
• To provide a typology of specific network practices, particularly those of curators and sojourners.

Main Methods:

• A participatory single case study approach was employed.
• The study focused on examining network structures, roles, and practices in depth.
• A framework was developed to detail network substructures and associated practices.

Main Results:

• A framework was established detailing common network substructures and critical practices.
• A typology of specific network practices, including those of curators and sojourners, was developed.
• The study found that diverse structures, interdependent roles, and practices collaborate to foster transformation.

Conclusions:

• A variety of network structures, roles, and practices are essential and work interdependently to support transformation.
• The findings have significant implications for designing, leading, and evaluating networks for systemic change.
• Effective network design and practice are critical for maximizing transformative capacity.