education policy sociologists

Question 1

Stephen Ball (Marxist/Neo-Marxist)

marketisation benefits mc

Answer 1

Main Idea: Argues that marketisation and parental choice benefit the middle class, leading to class inequalities in achievement.

AO3 Criticism: Some argue that marketisation can raise standards across all schools, not just those serving the middle class.

Question 2

Sharon Gewirtz (Marxist)

3 types of parent choosers

Answer 2

Main Idea: Identified three types of parent choosers: privileged-skilled, disconnected-local, and semi-skilled—showing how cultural and economic capital affect school choice.

AO3 Criticism: Critics say her study was based in London only and may not represent all areas or parents.

Question 3

Chubb and Moe (New Right)

marketisation and private style competition

Answer 3

Main Idea: Argue for marketisation and private-style competition to improve school standards; say state education fails disadvantaged pupils.

AO3 Criticism: Evidence shows that private schools often succeed because they serve the already privileged, not because they are more efficient.

Question 4

Gillborn and Youdell (Marxist/Critical Race Theory influence)

educational triage

Answer 4

Main Idea: Argue that educational policy like league tables leads to ‘educational triage’, where working-class and ethnic minority pupils are written off.

AO3 Criticism: Critics argue that not all teachers or schools label and neglect these students—some actively try to close achievement gaps.

Question 5

Ball (again – Globalisation)

Answer 5

Main Idea: Globalisation leads to the commodification of education—students are seen as products or consumers in a global education market.

AO3 Criticism: Others argue globalisation has brought innovation and higher standards in some schools through international competition.