Topic 1 - Why do we educate children? Flashcards
What is education?
Socialization is the process of passing cultural knowledge to individuals, typically children. In the UK, children aged 5 to 16 must receive education, though it doesn’t have to be through formal schooling.
Introduction?
Education systems worldwide differ, shaped by historical needs and ideological beliefs. The teaching of reading, for example, emerged alongside industrialization to ensure workers could follow written instructions. Some sociologists criticize education systems, viewing them as tools for control rather than genuine education.
Informal education?
Informal education refers to the way children are taught life skills by parents through daily activities, a practice common in all societies. Historically, this was the primary method of preparing children for adulthood.
Formal education?
Formal education in modern societies involves professional educators in structured institutions preparing students for public exams. Debates about essential knowledge are influenced by the beliefs of those in power about what children should learn.
Historical reasons for the development of education systems
Historical reasons for the development of education systems include child labor protection, vocational training for work, public health initiatives, the need for a trained workforce to support British manufacturing, military readiness, the promotion of cultural values, and religious reasons, such as teaching children to read the Bible for moral development.
Theoretical debates?
Structural theory viewpoints look at education in terms of the role it plays in society rather than the mechanics of how it takes place.
Functionalism?
Functionalism sees education as a non-critical tool for sorting children based on ability, with the most capable achieving the best jobs. It views education as meritocratic, offering a ladder of opportunity for high-achieving students.
Marxism?
Marxism sees education as a tool of social inequality, reinforcing an unequal system. It socializes people into accepting disparities in power and wealth, limiting equal educational opportunities.
Feminism?
Feminism views the education system as oppressing women by socializing children into traditional gender roles, reinforcing gender inequality.
Social action theories?
Social action theories focus on relationships within schools and how they impact children’s attainment, with little emphasis on the overall organization of the education system.
Interactionism?
Interactionism focuses on the relationships between teachers and pupils, as well as between pupils themselves. It examines how teachers label students as successful or unsuccessful and the impact these labels have on students’ self-identity and self-esteem. However, it can be seen as deterministic if it suggests children are passive in this process.
Post modernists?
Like interactionists, they focus on interactions within schools, viewing teachers and pupils as “constructors” of knowledge. In this view, schools create realities for pupils, shaping the values passed on.
How may education systems vary from british education systems?
Finland’s education system is regarded as one of the best globally, with high test scores in math, science, and reading. The system is based on providing high-quality, free education for all citizens, regardless of wealth, ethnicity, or age. Support services, such as free meals, transport, and financial aid, are available to ensure equal opportunities. The Finnish education system focuses on developing well-rounded, active citizens and lifelong learners, with an emphasis on health, arts, sports, and special education. Teaching is a highly respected and competitive profession, with well-trained teachers working only 4 hours daily and receiving ongoing professional development. The system is relaxed, with minimal homework, and encourages reading for pleasure. It offers a model of education centered on societal development and equitable outcomes for all children.
