Functionalism/Marxism and Education Flashcards
What approach do Functionalists take?
They take a macro approach, they conduct their studies on a large scale.
Why is this approach useful for Functionalists?
They are highly representative meaning their findings apply beyond the sample they have used.
Why is this approach not useful for Functionalists?
Due to their sample size, they miss smaller details/feelings, therefore limiting the validity (accuracy).
What view do Functionalists take?
They take a consensus view. This means that they sell all parts of society as sharing the same norms and values working together for the good of all.
What would functionalists think is the role of education?
They believe that the role of education is to give secondary socialisation into norms and values to achieve consensus and social stability.
Do Functionalists take a structural or social action view?
They take a structural view. This means that they believe that we are shaped by external forces, known as social institutions.
What theorists are Functionalists?
They are positivists. This means that they see society as a science and believe it can be analysed using scientific methods.
What data do Functionalists collect?
They collect quantitative data. This is data is in numerical form, they use methods such as official statistics and questionnaires with closed questions.
Why is this type of data good for Functionalists?
It is highly reliable as we can see patterns and trends to identify cause and effect relations.
Why is this type of data bad for Functionalists?
We cannot understand why people act that way so we cannot gain verstehen.
How many functions of education do the functionalists identify?
5
What are the 5 functions of education?
- Social solidarity
- The bridge theory
- The promotion of meritocracy
- The transmission of specialised skills
- Role allocation.
What is social solidarity?
The idea that all members of society feel together as part of something bigger.
How do schools enforce social solidarity?
Uniforms - all look the same.
Assemblies - Everyone at the same time given the same message.
How would a Marxist criticise social solidarity?
No consensus in society. Higher classes exploit the lower classes and have different norms and values.
What is bridge theory?
Parsons suggests that education bridges the gap between the family, and the real working world. Parsons suggests that the family teaches particularistic standards, whereas the education system teachers universalistic standards.
What are particularistic standards?
Teaching your children as individuals - that you are special.
What are universalistic standards?
Teamwork, obedience, conformity, all do as your told and behave the same way.
What would a Marxist say about bridge theory?
These are the standards of the ruling class eg, A Levels more difficult - keep lower classes in their place.
What is meritocracy?
People earn money, respect, status based on their efforts. The harder you work the more merits / rewards you get. Eg, GCSE grades.
What would Marxists say about meritocracy?
They say about the myth of meritocracy. The higher classes achieve more highly due to material capital, cultural capital and positive labelling in school.
