Assembling the actors: exploring the challenges of ‘system leadership’ in education through Actor-Network Theory (2017)
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Type of Content
Journal ArticlePublisher
Informa UK LimitedISSN
0268-09391464-5106
Language
EnglishCollections
Abstract
This paper presents insights into the leadership implications of recent shifts in a range of policy contexts towards notions of collaboration and partnership. The paper draws on empirical research into the formation and operation of government instituted networks in the context of education in Victoria, Australia. From 2001, School Networks and Local Learning and Employment Networks (LLEN) were implemented by the state government to support young people in their transition through school and into employment in a context of a risk society, a context where pathways into sustainable employment for young people, and others, had become more erratic. For comparative purposes, the paper also draws on published research into the implementation of joined-up approaches, including Primary Strategy Learning Networks (PSLN), in England. Using concepts from Actor-Network Theory (ANT), the paper argues for the value of considering the full range of actors – both human and non-human, real and unreal – involved in networking initiatives and proposes some thoughts on the implications of such a sociology of associations for both leadership and governance.
Citation
Kamp A (2017). Assembling the actors: exploring the challenges of ‘system leadership’ in education through Actor-Network Theory. Journal of Education Policy. 33(6). 778-792.This citation is automatically generated and may be unreliable. Use as a guide only.
Keywords
Partnership; Collaboration; Leadership; Actor-Network Theory; Governance; NetworksANZSRC Fields of Research
39 - Education::3904 - Specialist studies in education::390403 - Educational administration, management and leadership
39 - Education::3902 - Education policy, sociology and philosophy::390201 - Education policy