Functionalist veiw of Education

• What is the main focus of the functionalist view of education?

  Understanding the role of education in society
• What do functionalists assess regarding education?

  Its contribution to society's maintenance and wellbeing
• What do functionalists believe education transmits?

  Shared culture and social values
• Who is a key figure associated with the functionalist view of education?

  Durkheim
• According to Durkheim, what does education create?

  Social solidarity
• What does education teach children according to Durkheim?

  Specialist skills needed for modern society
• How does Durkheim view the relationship between education and social cooperation?

  Education fosters cooperation among workers
• What is a criticism of Durkheim's view on education?

  Assumes a shared culture exists in society
• What do Marxists argue about the education system?

  It serves the Ruling Class, not society
• What is Parsons' view of the education system?

  It is meritocratic
• How does Parsons describe the role of schools?

  As a bridge between family and society
• What does Parsons mean by "universalistic standards"?

  Standards applied equally to everyone
• What is a criticism of Parsons' view on education?

  Ignores values benefiting a ruling minority
• What do Davis and Moore argue about education?

  It facilitates role allocation in society
• How do Davis and Moore describe the education system?

  As a meritocratic system
• What is the relationship between education and occupational reward according to critics of Davis and Moore?

  It is not closely linked
• What do critics say about the grading of individuals in education?

  Intelligence has little effect on attainment
• What do critics argue about social stratification and education?

  It prevents efficient grading of ability
• What do Marxists say about the culture imposed by education?

  It reflects the dominant ruling class culture
• What is Tumin's criticism of Davis and Moore's view?

  Questions the importance of certain jobs
• How do standards in schools reflect societal views?

  They may reflect white, middle-class views
• What do ethnic minority groups demand regarding education?

  History teaching to reflect their experiences
• What is a criticism of the education system's relevance to the workplace?

  It does not provide necessary skills
• What are the main functions of education according to functionalists?

  • Social solidarity: Transmits shared culture
  • Skills provision: Teaches specialist skills
  • Role allocation: Places individuals in suitable jobs
• How has the Functionalist view of education contributed to our understanding today?

  • Explains role allocation in society
  • Highlights importance of meritocracy
  • Critiques the education system's limitations