Institutions Flashcards
What is an institution?
An institution is an organisation created to serve the concerns and needs of society.
Name 3 characteristics of an institution.
Is in existence for a long period of time.
Has written rules.
Has an organisational structure.
Serves a particular purpose.
Has systems of rewards and punishments.
Why is the hierarchal structure necessary in institutions?
Because institutions tend to be large there is hierarchal structure so members have a clear idea of where they stand in relation to others.
What is the purpose of institutions?
To provide the needs and services for society. E.G: Schools provide individuals with an opportunity to be educated.
As time passes, the needs of society will change therefore, the role of the institution will as well.
Institutions are formal groups based on…
certain norms, laws, rules or constitution.
What do written rules and regulations help with?
They help to maintain social control by keeping members in place to avoid the dysfunctioning of the institution/to ensure the proper functioning of the institution.
(same meaning different phrasing)
Rewards & Punishment: what happens when members don’t obey the rules?
Suspension
Salary reduction
Termination of employment
Why are rewards used in an institution?
To keep members positive and motivate them to achieve the institution/organizations’ goals.
What are some examples of rewards?
Commendations
Financial bonus
Promotion
Why are institutions important?
They serve a specific purpose in and provide for society. As a result, they will always exist even as the demands of society continue to change.
What are the 5 most common types of institutions?
Educational
Religious
Recreational
Economic
Political
Education begins where and completed where?
Begins in the home and is usually completed in a formal educational setting like a school.
Informal education can occur anywhere and delivered to anyone.
What makes a school an institution?
Has an organisational structure.
Has written rules and regulations.
Has rules and guidelines.
Has rewards and penalty systems.
Clearly stated goals and objectives.
Name the 4 types of educational institutions.
Early childhood
Primary
Secondary
Tertiary
At each level, individuals receive training which prepares them for the next level and life in general.
Name 4 skills to be developed in an educational institution.
- The three r’s: Reading, Writing, Arithmetic
- Creativity
- Critical thinking
- Interpersonal skills: the ability to interact and communicate well with others
What are 3 functions of education?
To educate and develop individual abilities.
To reduce social inequality.
To prepare individuals for the world of work.
To ensure citizens can function effectively in society.
To perpetuate or change cultural values.
What is the government’s role in education? (3)
- Can provide scholarships
- Provide meals, uniforms and books for the underprivileged
- Building schools
- Provide transportation for students who live in remote areas.
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What is religion?
The term ‘religion’ describes various systems of beliefs and practices concerning what people determine are spiritual or sacred.
- It is based on a system of faith and worship.
What do religious institutions do?
Through their teachings, encourage the belief in a higher being.
What are 3 functions of religious institutions?
To reinforce social control by promoting rules that govern behaviour and values that encourage unity among members.
Encouraging socialization via meetings and various activities.
To provide an explanation on creation and what is to come.
What are economic institutions?
Companies that engage in the business of dealing with monetary transactions like:
Currency exchange
Loans
Deposits and withdrawals
Investments
Providing financial advice
Economic institutions include:
Banks
Credit Unions
Brokerage firms
Insurance companies
These institutions provide the means for individuals and groups to finance projects, protect property, and to save for the future.
What is recreation?
It refers to the activities we partake in when we are not working or studying.
Such institutions provide activities to help meet the needs of society.
Why are recreational institutions designed?
They are designed to provide opportunities for people to socialize, exercise and relax in a structured environment.
