Information Exchange within the Social Networks of World Teachers in Uganda: An explorative mixed method study of information exchange, gender and cultural identity within the social networks of Ugandan teachers

Abstract

Edukans aims to offer quality education in Uganda, by investing in the professional development of teachers through the World Teacher Program (WTP). Social networks and information exchange play an important role in the professional development of teachers. Therefore, this study outlined the social networks of Ugandan teachers and the information exchange within these networks, in order to improve the WTP. Mixed methods were used to collect data. The sample consisted of 24 Ugandan teachers who participated in the WTP. Results of this study showed that the social networks are of great importance in the professional development of the teachers. However, Edukans and the Ugandan teachers have conflicting interests regarding the WTP. In sum, the WTP is contributing to quality education; the implications focus merely on the practical implementation of the program. Besides, this study underlined the need for Edukans to examine how the conflicting interests can be integrated in the WTP.