Researching social capital in education: Some conceptual considerations relating to the contribution of network analysis

Abstract

This article discusses conceptual considerations for social capital research in education from a social network perspective. Specifically, the article raises three key conceptual issues that call for further elaboration of concepts of social capital: redefining potential resources as accessible but un-utilized sources of social capital; differentiating social capital itself from the process of social capital formation; and investigating both network orientation of resource-seekers and willingness of resource-givers. Based on these three conceptual issues, the article suggests conceptual considerations relevant to each issue for social capital research in education. © 2010 Taylor & Francis.