Marxism: Theories of Education

ideological state apparatus (ISA)

societal institutions used to pass on the dominant ideology of the ruling class in order to maintain the way things are

repressive state apparatus (RSA)

institutions and mechanisms used by the state to maintain control through coercion and force (usually physical force)

correspondence principle

the ways in which the education system mirrors the world of work

the hidden curriculum

the norms and values which are taught indirectly and are part of the organisation and routines of the school

What are some examples of things taught through the hidden curriculum?

• punctuality

• respect for authority

• pro-school atttitude

• organisational skills

the myth of meritocracy

the idea that meritocracy does not actually exist because the biggest factor that determines a person’s status is their family and class background