PhD Dissertation Defense: Authorship, Collaboration, and Influence of IS Scholars: A Social Network Analysis Approach

Authorship, Collaboration, and Influence of IS Scholars: A Social Network Analysis Approach

Abstract:

This dissertation investigates the interrelations between collaborative dynamics and research impact within the Information Systems (IS) scholarly community through a dual-study approach. The first study meticulously analyzes the co-authorship network within IS research, leveraging data from premier journals over a twelve-year period. It utilized social network analysis (SNA) and various statistical tools to reveal a significant gender disparity in collaboration patterns, providing deep insights into the structural underpinnings of gender homophily within these networks. The implications of these findings reveal pronounced collaboration differences between men and women scholars, calling for strategic initiatives to support women in the IS academic community.

Expanding on this, the second study probes deeper into the social capital dimensions within IS scholars’ co-authorship networks and citation networks, examining structural capital, structural holes, core-periphery structures, as well as homophily, and their collective bearing on research impact. This comprehensive approach uncovers the intricate ways in which diverse facets of social capital, and unravel the complexities of network structures and its variable influence on research impact across genders. The findings indicate that while women IS scholars benefit from strong, direct connections, men counterparts often leverage diverse network positions for greater impact. 

By combining insights from both studies, this dissertation presents a robust analysis of the roles that collaboration networks play in determining the reach and impact of scholarly work in the field of IS. It provides a nuanced understanding of how collaborative practices influence research productivity, with a particular focus on the differential impact of gender disparities. This work not only contributes to academic literature by offering a comprehensive examination of the IS field’s collaborative structures but also emphasizes the critical role of social capital in IS academia. The research elucidates the multifaceted nature of academic collaborations and their impact, with a focus on addressing gender imbalances. This synthesis contributes a condensed yet potent perspective on academic networking, advancing the dialogue on equitable research practices and delineating pathways for fostering a more inclusive IS research landscape. 

Dissertation Committee:
Prof. Eleanor Loiacono (Chair)
Prof. Nima Kordzadeh
Prof. Sridhar Nerur

April 12th, 2024
10:00 AM-1:00 PM

Zoom link
https://wpi.zoom.us/j/98185707013

Shimi Zhou’s research interests are smart cities for people with disabilities, social inclusion in IT, and women leadership on social media. Her dissertation focuses on the authorship and influence of IS scholars. She uses social network analysis to evaluate the network structures and characteristics of IS academics. The research analyzes what factors impact IS scholars’ authorship networks and how these factors influence IS scholarship.

Shimi’s studies were published on European Journal of Information Systems, NEAIS, SAIS,  and AMCIS 2022 conference was awarded as one of the top 25 papers.

Prior to entering the PhD program at WPI, she received MS in Information Technology and BS in Information Management and Information System.

Contact: szhou7@wpi.edu