Structuring the technology dimension of distance education graduate programs:transformative social network synthesis

In this study, the aim is to develop a model for structuring the technology dimension of Distance Education Graduate Programs which will be distance programs themselves. Learning and communication dimensions were also considered in this process; learning process by Transformative Learning Theory and communication process by Social Network Theory. Current approaches and methods are insufficient when the problem is structuring the technology dimension of Distance Education Graduate Programs for the first time. Therefore, in this study, concept of "Social Network Synthesis" is defined and applied. In this qualitative case study, Delphi method was used to benefit from the experts' opinions and experiences in Distance Education field. For this purpose, a theoretical matrix was developed considering both the theories to collect data and questions were generated according to the theoretical matrix. In the first two rounds of Delphi, the Actors which should be taken place in the Social Network that will be developed relating to provide Transformative Learning. In the following two tours, how the Relationships between the Learner and the Actors, and properties of each relationship should be was the focus. Based on the findings, an ego-network type of Social Network structure is presented where the Learner was in the centrum. In this context, it is found that the Social Network should consist of the Actors that are closely related to Distance Education and Technology in an academic or practical way. The relationships between the Learner and these Actors should be mostly two- way symmetric; and if the relationship is one-way, the Learner should be the one that starts it. Most of the relationships should be strong and very strong, and periodic or continuous. In addition, the Learner should spend most of his/her time for these relationships. Lastly, in this study, regarding the suggestions for providing the Social Network structure that is found, a Social Network Synthesis Model was developed. It is thought to provide guidance for institutions, researchers and learners. Keywords: Distance Education, Programs in Distance Education Field, Technology Dimension of Distance Education Programs, Model, Transformative Learning Theory, Social Network Theory, Social Network Synthesis.