Academic Social Capital of Students from an Alternative School: An Ego Network Perspective

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study looked to explore the access to academic social capital for those who have considering dropping out. The research utilized social network analysis, specifically ego networks, to explore how four individuals from an alternative school perceived their own social networks. Name generators, name interpreters, and name interrelators were used to determine the size, composition, and structure of these networks. Everyone’s network differed in either the number of connections, who was within the network, and what resources those people offered. The results were then organized by the potential benefits and problems of the four networks, focusing specifically on the size, composition, and structure. Practitioners can see how to effectively utilize egocentric cognitive social structures.