Network ties and two-year midlevel academic administrator professional development: A narrative study

Abstract

Scope and Method of Study: The purpose of this qualitative study was to identify the means through which midlevel academic administrators (MAAs) of two-year postsecondary institutions acquire the minimum skills and knowledge necessary to perform their positions, and the role of social network ties in this process. Purposive sampling was used to identify twelve prospective participants; ten participated. The data used in this study were generated through semi-structured interviews and review of basic institutional media, thematically coded, then categorized. Granovetter's strength of weak ties theory served as the theoretical lens for this research project.

Findings and Contributions: This study identified 23 skill and knowledge sets necessary to fulfill two-year MAA positions, as well as the 14 means through which these were acquired. A number of novel insights regarding MAA development were also revealed.

The participating MAAs gained more skills and knowledge through trial-anderror than any other development means, and primarily when other means were not available, or the midlevel academic leaders perceived that other means would be inadequate.

The MAAs evidenced a preference for the strong, interpersonal ties they share with their fellow midlevel academic leaders and supervisors, as well as their weak connections with industry representatives, in acquiring key skills and knowledge.

Formal professional development activities only had a noteworthy impact on MAAs' competence with academic assessment and computer technologies, and were of greatest use in facilitating interchanges with postsecondary professionals outside their respective institutions.

Postsecondary coursework was primarily useful in assisting the participating midlevel academic leaders in gaining general knowledge of higher education processes, and insights which allow them to empathize with students - even though a majority of the MAAs who participated in this study hold or were currently pursuing degrees in education.