Relations between formal and emergent structures : a case study of social network analysis at the International School of Havana

Abstract

There is growing interest in studying the relationship between deliberate formal organizational structures in schools and the social relationship patterns that emerge from these. While many schools worldwide are mostly designed and managed based on bureaucratic concepts such as division of labour, formalization or centralized decision-making, the informal structures that emerge within the organization are often overlooked.

Recent studies suggest that the emergent informal structures that are formed through social relationships may positively impact organizational outcomes such as student achievement. It is therefore important to be able to better understand the informal structures, and thus be able to influence and support them to improve school performance.

This case study aimed to build a deeper understanding of the relationship between the formal structure of a school and how it may affect emerging social networks within it. The study used network surveys to collect data from all employees in an international school. Social network theory and analysis was used to explore properties of the informal organization and to contrast these properties with employees' perceptions of the school's formal structure.

The results obtained suggest that a broader understanding of social networks within the school and how these emerge from and influence the formal structure can be beneficial for school administrators.