Funtionalist views

Question 1

Durkheim

Answer 1

two functions of society education system:
1. promoting social solidarity
> schools are meant to create a awareness of our ‘national culture’ and ‘promote social solidarity’.
> subjects like history, English literature achieve this aim well - socialising pupils into a shared value system, they leave school fully equipped to fit into society - making society strong.
> pupils learn importance of punctuality, attendance and work ethic through the ‘hidden curriculum’ - this helps strengthen social solidarity
EVAL - its not possible to have a single value consensus or social solidarity as people will disagree on some things.
2. teaching specialist skills
> school prepares individuals for work by teaching specific skills.
> science has a direct link to becoming a doctor and catering has a direct link to becoming a water in hospitality.
> BTECs for example often have clear links to jobs and particular industries for example physical education or spot camtech.
EVAL - Britain’s current skill status challenges this functionalist view, there is shortages of nurses, teachers etc.

Question 2

Parsons (1961)

Answer 2

saw classroom as “microcosm” (miniature representation) of society.
> schools helps to build upon the socialisation taking place in the family to ensure they are ready for the workplace.
> education serves a ‘bridge’ between the family and society -
>for example there are expectations on children’s behaviour that are specific to a specific family - this is called “particularistic standards”.
> furthermore, a person’s status in their family is ‘ascribed from birth’ however in wider society, everybody is expected to follow the same rules e.g. the law. - this is called “universalistic standards”
> schools prepare students to achieve their status in adult life and at the same time school promotes the value of achievement.
EVAL - too idealistic? fails to consider how many students pass through the education system which is a lot.
EVAL - fails to embrace ‘universalistic standards’ are sometimes ignored as anti-school subcultures form.

Question 3

Davis and Moore (1945)

Answer 3

argue the education system performs a ‘role allocation function’ built upon principles such as fairness.
> in this way schools are ‘meritocratic’
> regardless of a students position success can be achieved through hard work and determination.
> most talented students ‘win through’ to secure the highest grades therefore highest paid jobs
> those who put less effort in get worse grades and low-paid job’s.
EVAL - grades don’t always match job status, some people acquire a high-paid job even with bad grades, vice-versa.