Postmodern views of education

Question 1

What are postmodernists views on education?

Answer 1

Postmodernists argue that society has changed and we now live in
a post-modern society characterised by choice, diversity and
individualism. Postmodernists look at how the education system is
changing such as the development of new technologies (e.g. mobile
phones, the internet). Postmodern society places importance on
individualism and education has become increasingly individualised,
tailored to the needs and demands of individuals

Question 2

What two changes to the education system have the postmodernists proposed?

Answer 2

1. Individual choice

Education reflects the personal needs and wishes of students.
For example, there are now lots of secondary schools and colleges to choose from – parents and students can “shop around” to find the best school or college for them. In addition, there are now many ways in which students can learn post-16 including apprenticeships, BTECs, A Levels, work-based experience
AND
2. More ICT lessons

Globalisation (inter-connectedness of countries all over the world – we are connected
by advances in technology e.g. internet, social media, cheap air travel) has led to a
rise in ICT jobs e.g. internet-based companies, social media. As a result, schools need
to teach students computer skills e.g. coding, using excel spreadsheets. These skills
are essential in order to compete with other countries in the global economy.
as a result, politicians and education specialists are

Question 3

A03

Answer 3

• Postmodern ideas about education fail to explain why there are inequalities in educational achievement through social class, gender and ethnicity. They cannot explain why working class pupils typically achieve lower grades than middle class children for instance.
• Postmodern theories fail to offer solutions for issues within education.