Educational Theory - Functionalism Flashcards
Social Solidarity
Durkheim argues that school promotes social solidarity around shared goals.
subjects such as english and history promote national unity. education is a means of bringing people together
EVALUATE: school won’t wine away what parents may have taught at home
education is ethnocentric ie only teach British history. does not show British failure in history only their success.
Teaching skills necessary for work
modern companies have a complex division of labour. school teaches the skills needed for the world of work. teaches how to cooperate with people for later in life.
Bridge between home and wider society
parsons argues school is the bridge between particularistic standards to universalistic standards. teaches us to cope in the wider world (in wider society)
Role allocation & meritocracy
society needs the most able to do the most challenging jobs and those less skilled to do the less demanding jobs. equal system as everyone is given equal chances at success.
EVALUATION: cultural capital means more privileged students go yo more prestigious schools
Social solidarity is created ……….
created by the teachers who are helpful to those students who re falling behind. this is evidenced by the documentary ‘Educating Yorkshire” in which teachers are shown giving kind support to a student who struggles with a stammering issue.
education and unemployment levels…………
there is a strong correlation between educational success and unemployment levels. there is also a strong correlation between income and education. better grades means a higher income.
criticising the functionalist view
boys are more likely to be excluded.
FSM children less likely to achieve 5 grade A*-C.
social solidarity not created ie in RS not all religions are shown.
schools don’t teach cooperation as there are many bullying incidents.
private school students are more likely to be in high paying careers.
