Willis - Anti - School Subculture

• What is Paul Willis's view on how school prepares children for the workplace?

  Willis believes it prepares them for the boredom of manual labour.
• How does Willis describe the values developed by working-class "lads" at school?

  They develop a distinct set of values that serve as a coping mechanism.
• What is the main characteristic of the anti-school subculture described by Willis?

  It focuses on "having a laff" and entertaining themselves.
• How does the anti-school subculture reward students differently than the school system?

  It rewards appreciation from peers rather than grades and qualifications.
• What is considered the worst thing to be for "the lads" in Willis's study?

  An "ear'ole" (a teacher's pet or swot).
• What is the ultimate outcome of the experiences of "the lads" according to Willis?

  They become an easily exploitable workforce serving capitalism.
• How do "the lads" express their rebellion according to Willis?

  Through schoolyard humour and mockery.
• What is the neo-Marxist perspective on the role of schools in preparing workers?

  It does not argue that schools consciously prepare workers for exploitation.
• How do neo-Marxists view the intentions of teachers and educational managers?

  They recognize that many do not work deliberately for the bourgeoisie.
• What challenge does the class nature of capitalist society pose according to Willis?

  It makes it difficult to work against exploitation or recognize one's role in it.
• What is the principle function of the education system according to neo-Marxist theories?

  To reproduce inequality in society.
• Why might teachers not intentionally ensure working-class pupils fail according to the study material?

  Because it is not necessarily their intention, but it happens due to systemic issues.
• Ear'ole


  A teacher's pet or a student who excessively tries to please the teacher