Providing Outsider and Insider Perspectives Using Mixed-Methods Social Network Analyses

Researchers conducting studies related to special education contexts in rural schools must find ways to account for and consider unique and diverse cultural and contextual factors. In this article, we introduce mixed-methods social network analysis as one way to incorporate the structural and cultural aspects of rurality within a research design. We explain the basic tenets of social network analysis and mixed-methods social network analysis, including theoretical orientation, research focus, and analysis options. Then, we provide possible research topics that could be explored using a mixed-methods social network analysis approach. We conclude with an exemplar including data from rural special educator interviews and networks.