Research and Data Analysis

Social Network Analysis (SNA) for Community Research Training Course

Introduction

In todayΓÇÖs hyper-connected world, Social Network Analysis (SNA) has emerged as a powerful tool for community research, public policy, and grassroots interventions. Social Network Analysis (SNA) for Community Research Training Course offers an in-depth exploration into the application of SNA to map, measure, and visualize the relationships that shape communities. By understanding the structure and dynamics of social networks, community researchers, data analysts, and social scientists can uncover hidden influencers, track information flows, and design data-driven interventions. The course is tailored for both beginners and experienced researchers seeking to amplify the impact of their work through network-based insights.

Leveraging cutting-edge analytics, data visualization, and community engagement techniques, this course equips participants with practical skills in software like Gephi, UCINET, and Python-based tools. Real-world case studies provide a foundation for applying SNA in contexts such as health communication, disaster resilience, youth empowerment, and stakeholder mapping. Whether you're involved in social innovation, academic research, nonprofit work, or civic technology, this course will help you translate network data into actionable community change strategies.

Programme Curriculum

Social Network Analysis (SNA) for Community Research Training Course

Introduction

Course Objectives:

Understand core principles of Social Network Analysis (SNA)
Apply SNA tools for community-based research
Analyze network structures and identify key actors
Utilize Gephi and UCINET for visualizing social data
Explore centrality, cohesion, and influence metrics
Conduct stakeholder analysis through SNA
Map information flow and social capital distribution
Leverage SNA for health and development interventions
Integrate SNA into mixed-methods research designs
Evaluate online and offline network behaviors
Use Python for automated social network mapping
Create data-informed community engagement strategies
Develop actionable insights for policy and advocacy

Target Audiences

Community development practitioners
Social science researchers
NGO and nonprofit workers
Urban planners and policy analysts
Public health professionals
Civic tech and data activists
Academic faculty and graduate students
International development consultants

Course Duration: 5 days

Course Modules

Module 1: Introduction to Social Network Analysis

Definition and evolution of SNA
Core concepts: nodes, ties, density
Types of social networks
Applications in community settings
Tools overview: Gephi, UCINET
Case Study: Mapping informal communication in slum communities

Module 2: Data Collection for SNA

Qualitative and quantitative methods
Designing network surveys
Ethical considerations in SNA
Using digital trace data (e.g., social media)
Cleaning and formatting data for analysis
Case Study: Data collection for youth-led networks in Nairobi

Module 3: Network Metrics and Interpretation

Centrality (degree, betweenness, closeness)
Cohesion and clustering
Network density and fragmentation
Structural holes and bridging
Interpreting real-world meaning
Case Study: Identifying influencers in a vaccination campaign

Module 4: Network Visualization Techniques

Principles of effective network visualization
Gephi interface and layout algorithms
Aesthetic customization and export
Color-coding nodes by attributes
Animating network evolution over time
Case Study: Visualizing the spread of misinformation

Module 5: Software Tools: Gephi, UCINET, Python

Gephi workflow for beginners
UCINET for matrix-based analysis
Scripting in Python with NetworkX
Comparing tool outputs
Tips for large network datasets
Case Study: Cross-platform analysis of refugee support networks

Module 6: SNA in Community Health and Development

Using SNA for behavioral health campaigns
Mapping disease transmission networks
Identifying gatekeepers in health communication
Social support and recovery networks
Measuring intervention impact via network change
Case Study: HIV prevention networks in rural Kenya

Module 7: Policy and Advocacy Applications of SNA

Mapping power relations and influence
Identifying marginalized actors
Coalition-building through networks
Integrating SNA in policy briefs
Leveraging findings for advocacy
Case Study: Civic engagement in urban housing policy

Module 8: Building and Sustaining Network Projects

Designing long-term network interventions
Engaging stakeholders across sectors
Monitoring network changes over time
Embedding SNA into organizational workflows
Capacity building and institutionalization
Case Study: Sustaining a cross-sector anti-poverty coalition

Training Methodology

Interactive lectures and real-time demos
Hands-on exercises with open-source tools
Group projects and peer collaboration
Expert-led case study walkthroughs
Assessment through mini-projects and reflection
Mentorship and post-course support

Register as a group from 3 participants for a Discount

Send us an email:┬áinfo@fineskilltrainingcenter.org┬áor call┬á+254769199797┬á

Certification

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a globally- recognized certificate.

Tailor-Made Course

┬áWe also offer tailor-made courses based on your needs.

Key Notes

a.┬áThe participant must be conversant with English.

b.┬áUpon completion of training the participant will be issued with an Authorized Training Certificate

c.┬áCourse duration is flexible and the contents can be modified to fit any number of days.

d.┬áThe course fee includes facilitation training materials, 2 coffee breaks, buffet lunch and A Certificate upon successful completion of Training.

e.┬áOne-year post-training support Consultation and Coaching provided after the course.

f.┬áPayment should be done at least a week before commence of the training, to Fineskill Training Center account, as indicated in the invoice so as to enable us prepare better for you.

Skills & Software Covered

SNA community dynamics relational data analysis

Programme Fee

Duration: 5 Days

Method: Online or Physical

Online Price: $1,000

Physical Price: $1,500

Certification: Accredited Certificate

View Available Dates 📄 Download Course Outline (PDF)

Available Sessions

Location

Month

Year

Oct 19 2026

19 Oct — 23 Oct 2026

💻 Online / Virtual session

Online $1,000