Networking in education: From concept to action – An analytical view on the Educational Territories of Priority Intervention (TEIP) in Northern Portugal

Abstract

This article presents an analysis of school principals’ perspectives on networking concerning schools and school clusters from areas of social vulnerability (Educational Territories of Priority Intervention (TEIP)) in Northern Portugal. The meanings, purpose, benefits and difficulties of networking in education are examined, based on interviews with school principals. The concept of networking has a theoretical, conceptual and methodological organising function. The data show that networking, partnership and collaboration are used similarly when considering the work inside the school and between schools, as well as with the outside community. Networking is viewed as crucial for the school, and benefits are underlined both for the school and for students and teachers. The culture of isolation and individualism in teachers’ work is a challenge schools face. Although there is a wide recognition of the value of networking in education, there is an equally wide and diverse perspective on it as well as on strategies to implement it.