Studying knowledge networks in higher education policymaking

Abstract

This chapter approaches the study of knowledge networks within higher education policymaking through a poststructuralist perspective on power and knowledge. Drawing on Foucault's theories, we understand knowledge as both a policymaking object and resource. We outline a convergent mixed-method design that combines network analysis, thematic interviews, and observations. We use an analytical framework of Comparative Analytics of Dynamics in Education Politics to structure the design to focus on the political situation, political possibilities, and use of political space within knowledge networks. We describe the methodological tools and data sources for our research. In conclusion, we discuss the difficulties in building a network database through public documents, the importance of a coherent yet flexible theoretical framework to deal with the complexities of practical research work, and the need to facilitate discussions of methodology within the research group.