This workshop introduces egocentric networks for social scientists. It is meant to be a practical guide for people interested in conducting their own egocentric network study. We will first cover the basic concepts of the egocentric network approach, including common assumptions and theories in social network research. We will further discuss different name generators and name interpreters as well as ways to measure network structure and try out specific open-access egocentric network software (e.g., EgoNet). Participants are invited to present and receive feedback on their research ideas on Day 3.

Graduate students and researchers in the social sciences that are interested in conducting an egocentric network study.

Participants will first receive an introduction to the most important theories of social network analysis in general, followed by a specific introduction to the basic methods of egocentric network analysis. Participants will have the opportunity to present their research idea or a specific research project. After completing the workshop, participants should be able to design and conduct a research study on egocentric networks.

Participants should have basic knowledge in quantitative data analysis.