sociological theories Flashcards
What is the ‘hidden curriculum’? (Bowles and Gintis)
These are said to be ‘lessons’ which arent taught directly. Forming pupils into adults ready for the workplace e.g. accepting hierarchy, working for rewards, yet people arent aware there is no such thing as ‘hidden curriculum’.
Who carried out research to find out the ‘ideal pupil’- what did they find?
Howard Becker- the ideal pupil was generally middle class as they were known to be ‘better behaved’.
What is a ‘self-fulfilling prophecy’- who researched it?
Self-fulfilling prophecy is a prediction or assumption that is made and then turns out to be accurate merely for having made the assumption in the first place. Rosenthal and Jacobson carried out research in schools, making assumptions on random children to see if it would affect the teachers attitudes towards them-it did.
What was a main find for Steven Balls study in abolishing streaming?
He found that class inequalities can continue even as a result of teachers unaware labeling, dont necessary need the labeling of streams.
Why does middle class children do better in education than working class children, according to J.W.B Douglas?
Douglas states working class pupils achieve lower than middle class as middle class parents are more likely to support their children intellectual development, by doing things such as reading and educational activities. Working class parents/children supposedly dont place much importance on education.
What is Parsons’ ‘Meritocracy’?
Everyone is given an equal chance and individuals achieve based on their own ability and efforts.
What are the two functions of education, according to Emile Durkheim?
Creating social solidarity:Feeling as a community
Teaching specialist skills: Teaching individuals their specialized skill for their right role in the division of labour.
What two functions does the education system have in Louis Althussers view?
Education reproduces class inequality, mainly degrades working class. Education legitimates(justifies) class inequality that use sets of ideas and beliefs to cover the true incentives, to stop people questioning the way they are treated.
