Sociology | Education | Functionalist view

• What does Human Capital refer to in the context of education?

  The stock of knowledge, skills, values, habits, and creativity that makes someone an economic asset to society.
• What is meant by Hidden Curriculum in education?

  It refers to the informal learning processes that teach students the norms and values of society.
• What are Particularistic Values?

  Values and rules that only apply to a particular person in a given situation, such as at home.
• What are Universalistic Values?

  Values and rules that apply to all members of society equally.
• What are the four functions of education according to Functionalism?

  1. Socialisation and Social Solidarity
  2. Bridge between family and society
  3. Developing Human Capital
  4. Role Allocation
• Who is the key thinker associated with the function of Socialisation and Social Solidarity in education?

  Durkheim
• How does the education system contribute to social solidarity according to Durkheim?

  By passing on the cultural values of society through the hidden curriculum and PSHE lessons.
• What are some criticisms of the functionalist perspective on education?

  It ignores dysfunctional aspects, promotes the myth of meritocracy, and overlooks social inequalities.
• What does the term "myth of meritocracy" refer to in the context of education?

  The belief that educational success is solely based on individual merit, ignoring social inequalities.
• What do Marxists argue about the Hidden Curriculum?

  It reinforces social inequality and maintains ruling class ideology.
• How do feminists view the Hidden Curriculum?

  They argue that it maintains and reinforces patriarchy rather than meritocracy.
• What is Wong's critique of the functionalist view of children in education?

  Wong argues that functionalists see children as passive puppets of socialization, ignoring the complexity of teacher-pupil relationships.
• What is the link between educational achievement and economic success according to the functionalist perspective?

  There is a weak link between educational achievement and economic success.
• Who is the key thinker associated with the function of bridging family and society?

  Parsons
• What role do schools play in the transition from family to society according to Parsons?

  Schools provide a link that allows students to move from ascribed status and particularistic values to meritocratic and universalistic values.
• Who is the key thinker associated with the development of Human Capital?

  Schultz
• What does the concept of Developing Human Capital suggest?

  Investment in education benefits the wider economy by providing a qualified and flexible workforce.
• Who are the key thinkers associated with Role Allocation in education?

  Davis and Moore
• What is the function of Role Allocation in the education system?

  It selects and sifts people into the social hierarchy based on educational achievement.
• What is the New Right view of education?

  • Similar beliefs to functionalists
  • Argue that the state takes too much of a role
  • Advocate for free market policies (marketisation) to raise standards
  • Schools should compete with one another
  • Parents and pupils should be seen as consumers
• Who proposed the concept of Education Vouchers and Parentocracy?

  Chubb and Moe
• What were the key features of the 1988 Education Reform Act?

  • Funding formula
  • League Tables
• What are some educational policies introduced by New Labour and the Coalition Government?

  • New Labour: Academies
  • Coalition Government: Free Schools, Privatisation of Education