Regional networks and regional didactic centres to foster science edu...

This paper presents the formation of networks and centres in education using the Austrian IMST (Innovations Make Schools Top) project as illustration. In the wake of systemic school modernization processes in Austria, networks in educational contexts have become increasingly attractive in educational systems. To enhance innovative instruction in science education, IMST Regional Networks and Didactic Centres at Universities and Colleges were established in every Austrian federal state. The development of the IMST networks was based on international work in the field of educational networks and social networking theories. Coordinated by a steering group, these networks offer a contact point for schools and teachers, they organise the exchange of experience and further education, as well as regular evaluation. A cross case analysis of the nine IMST Regional Networks outlines the dynamic development of networks. Furthermore, the question, how the objectives of IMST are specified and implemented for the further development of instruction in the federal states, will be answered. Networks and centres can be understood as structural attempts to enter new paths in the design of learning and the cooperation of persons and institutions. The overall challenge might be described as keeping momentum between innovation and stability, to enable the sustainable development of learning. The results will offer hints for practical interventions in networks and lead to hypotheses for further research.