Functionalism Argument Flashcards
What is the first role of the education system as a social institution
social solidarity - a value consensus (shared values) and a common culture
What does Durkheim argue?
social solidarity and an understanding of social norms is created through the overt and hidden curriculum
what does the overt curriculum create?
subjects like history, creates a common sense of identity and heritage.
what does the covert curriculum create
creates an understanding of norms like respecting the authority of superiors like teachers, punctuality etc
how does the overt AND covert curriculum work together
operates to bind people together, constructing shared values within a common culture.
who is the analysis for social solidarity
Parsons
what does Parsons argue?
sees school as the ‘focal socialising agency’ acting as a bridge between the family and wider society
What is the standards and status Parsons argues are within the FAMILY
- Particularistic standards - norms only applied to 1 child ( e.g given special attention by parents)
- Ascribed status - fixed at birth ( e.g. children are ascribed status based on their age and gender)
What is the standards and status Parsons argues are within the
Universalistic standards - applied to all children
Achieved status - position given after completing exams etc.. based on your performance
what is the second role of the education system?
role allocation
who is the evidence for role allocation?
Davis and Moore
what does Davis and Moore argue?
education ‘sifts and sorts’ people into a hierarchy based on their ability. The most able are allocated to the most important roles, while those less able are allocated to less important roles.
Who is the analysis for role allocation
Blau and Duncan
What does Blau and Duncan argue
modern economies depend on workers’ skill, what they term human capital.
functionalists argue that the education system is meritocratic, what does this mean?
those who work the hardest succeed in education
