A social network analysis of the (STEM)2 Network model: bridging disciplinary and institutional silos

Reform efforts in STEM face challenges including isolation of faculty by discipline and institution. In response, we developed the (STEM)2 Network, a research network of biology, chemistry, and mathematics faculty from multiple institutions. The Network focuses on the role of faculty in transforming undergraduate STEM education by explicitly attempting to bridge traditional disciplinary and institutional silos. Using social network analysis, we (1) assessed the impact of the (STEM)2 Network on interdisciplinary and inter-institutional connections and (2) identified characteristics of highly connected individuals within the Network. SNA metrics related to connectedness indicate that the Network increased connections among participants. Metrics associated with network substructure indicate that the Network catalyzed connections across disciplines and institutions. Individuals with leadership positions within the Network had the most connections and served as bridges. Two factors critical to the success of the Network are: the multi-disciplinary, multi-institution leadership team composition and alignment of Network activities with underlying theoretical frameworks: emergent outcomes, systems design for organizational change, and development of a community of transformation. The (STEM)2 Network model successfully bridges silos and catalyzes collaborations to foster creativity, innovation, and bring about change.