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Revealing the Relational Mechanisms of Research for Development Through Social Network Analysis

Author

Listed:
  • Marina Apgar

    (University of Sussex)

  • Guillaume Fournie

    (Royal Veterinary College)

  • Barbara Haesler

    (Royal Veterinary College)

  • Grace Lyn Higdon

    (University of Sussex)

  • Leah Kenny

    (London School of Economics)

  • Annalena Oppel

    (London School of Economics)

  • Evelyn Pauls

    (London School of Economics)

  • Matthew Smith

    (Edinburgh Napier University)

  • Mieke Snijder

    (University of Sussex)

  • Daan Vink

    (Royal Veterinary College)

  • Mazeda Hossain

    (London School of Economics)

Abstract

Achieving impact through research for development programmes (R4D) requires engagement with diverse stakeholders across the research, development and policy divides. Understanding how such programmes support the emergence of outcomes, therefore, requires a focus on the relational aspects of engagement and collaboration. Increasingly, evaluation of large research collaborations is employing social network analysis (SNA), making use of its relational view of causation. In this paper, we use three applications of SNA within similar large R4D programmes, through our work within evaluation of three Interidsiplinary Hubs of the Global Challenges Research Fund, to explore its potential as an evaluation method. Our comparative analysis shows that SNA can uncover the structural dimensions of interactions within R4D programmes and enable learning about how networks evolve through time. We reflect on common challenges across the cases including navigating different forms of bias that result from incomplete network data, multiple interpretations across scales, and the challenges of making causal inference and related ethical dilemmas. We conclude with lessons on the methodological and operational dimensions of using SNA within monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) systems that aim to support both learning and accountability.

Suggested Citation

  • Marina Apgar & Guillaume Fournie & Barbara Haesler & Grace Lyn Higdon & Leah Kenny & Annalena Oppel & Evelyn Pauls & Matthew Smith & Mieke Snijder & Daan Vink & Mazeda Hossain, 2023. "Revealing the Relational Mechanisms of Research for Development Through Social Network Analysis," The European Journal of Development Research, Palgrave Macmillan;European Association of Development Research and Training Institutes (EADI), vol. 35(2), pages 323-350, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:eurjdr:v:35:y:2023:i:2:d:10.1057_s41287-023-00576-y
    DOI: 10.1057/s41287-023-00576-y
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    References listed on IDEAS

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