Theories Of Education Postmodernism: Lesson 17

Question 1

Why would Postmodernists argue Marxism & Functionalism is outdated?

Answer 1

• written at a time schools and society were different
• rise of individualism = gender ethnicity differences more defining rather than social class leading to success
• so much change since these theories that the can’t be representative

Question 2

What do Postmodernists focus on?

Answer 2

Not how structural forces and institutions dictate education, but how individuals experience it

Question 3

What do Postmodernists argue?

Answer 3

• Increased choice in people’s lives, so identities are fluid and many education approaches have emerged to cater to diverse learning styles.
• challenges one-size-fits all education

Question 4

How has education changed because of individualism?

Answer 4

Different types of schooling e.g private, faith
- shift away from one-size-fits all learning
- more choice for accommodating students needs e.g subjects and schools to attend
- teachers adapt teaching to meet students needs

Question 5

How has education changed because of the economy?

Answer 5

• industrial - information society so training of workforce changes
• global economy means national boundaries less important
• education changes to meet global workforce needs

Question 6

How has education changed because of globalisation?

Answer 6

• teaching global issues
• increased migration changes education policies e.g prayer rooms
• influence on other education systems affect UK policies

Question 7

How has education changed because of the rise of adult education?

Answer 7

• rise of adult learning courses = re-training of skills, can be done remotely
• education and training become intergrated
• education is life long

Question 8

What are negative points about the Postmodern view on education?

Answer 8

• overly optimistic about diversity in education e.g national curriculum still exists, OSFA
• private schools out preform state schools
• structural factors which effect attainment so it’s not all micro

Question 9

What are positive points on the Postmodern view of education?

Answer 9

• recognise students have different learning needs
• acknowledges changing economy and therefore need for change
• encourages digital tools to make education more accessible