Students in the Program in Social-Organizational Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University, can take coursework related to Dynamic Network Theory, which was created by Faculty in this program. This Social-Organizational Psychology Program has a long and impactful history and provides many opportunities to learn relevant theories, methods, and applied tools to understand human behavior and change through a dynamic network theory lens. Courses and lab experiences from the pioneers of Dynamic Network Theory are often available for graduate students as well.
Individuals interested in applying can inquire here about the Masters Program, Ph.D. Program, Fellows Program, and Certificate Programs
The following courses directly address topics and process related to Dynamic Network Theory:
Space restrictions may apply in some cases.
There are various ways to develop expertise about concepts and tools in Dynamic Network Theory.
To start, visit the various sections of this website to get an overview about the theory, its surveys, and its visualization analytics. This can provide a brief but helpful overview, including our newest conceptualizations or modifications of the theory (such as our new scales to measure system reactance as constructive relations during conflict).
Then, visit our publications page to start reading more about the theory from peer reviewed scientific journals. A suggested order of reading is provided: The Westaby, Pfaff, and Redding (2014) article is a good place to get an overview of dynamic network theory at the individual level. This article is free to download because it was published by the Lab's founder and on his university webpage. Click on the "Documents" tab when going to the following Faculty page: Click here.
Second, the Westaby (2012) book represents the original theory and covers numerous areas of application, ranging from individual, group, organizational, and international levels. To note, however, our current methodology and computer applications are far more advanced since the original publication. Network interventions and leadership mechanisms are also explained from a Dynamic Network Theory perspective, if interested. Lastly, if you are able to participate in a network goal survey and receive the advanced computerized feedback reports from your own data, it's a powerful way to bring the theory to life in your own real-world context. It's no longer just academic; it can potentially help one learn and intervene to create positive change.
Concepts and findings from the following scientific journals help fuel many of the scientifically-based propositions in Dynamic Network Theory:
Psychology
Networks and Systems
Note: Some network analyses are also published in Psychology and Management journals
Management
Organizational Development and Change (applied or scientist/practitioner-oriented journals)
More References
Although Dynamic Network Theory transcends disciplines and is applicable across levels, the following associations are related to processes in the theory:
Psychologically Related
Network and System Related
Organization Related
Conflict Related
Social Networks
Complex Systems
Broad centers
Network and System Visualization Programs
Psychology Focus
Goals, Motivation, and Behavior
Decision Making
Prejudice and Implicit Attitudes
General Misc. Articles
More to come...