GCSE AQA Sociology Education

According to Functionalists, what is the role of education?

Education socialises individuals into shared norms and values. It acts as a bridge between family and society, providing a skilled workforce.

How do Marxists view the role of education?

Education serves the interests of capitalism by reproducing social class inequality and legitimising it through the 'myth of meritocracy'. It acts as an ideological state apparatus (ISA).

What is material deprivation?

Refers to a lack of resources and financial support, such as inadequate housing, poor diet, and lack of educational resources, which negatively impact educational achievement.

What is cultural deprivation?

Refers to the idea that some children are deprived of the necessary language, intellectual skills, and attitudes that are essential for success in education, often due to their family's culture.

According to Functionalists, what is the role of education?

Education socialises individuals into shared norms and values. It acts as a bridge between family and society, providing a skilled workforce.

How do Marxists view the role of education?

Education serves the interests of capitalism by reproducing social class inequality and legitimising it through the 'myth of meritocracy'. It acts as an ideological state apparatus (ISA).

What is material deprivation?

Refers to a lack of resources and financial support, such as inadequate housing, poor diet, and lack of educational resources, which negatively impact educational achievement.

What is cultural deprivation?

Refers to the idea that some children are deprived of the necessary language, intellectual skills, and attitudes that are essential for success in education, often due to their family's culture.

How does education contribute to the 'hidden curriculum' according to Marxists?

The hidden curriculum teaches obedience, conformity, and acceptance of hierarchy, preparing students for their role in the capitalist workforce by subtly reinforcing social control and class divisions.

What is cultural capital, and how does it relate to educational achievement?

Cultural capital refers to the non-financial assets (e.g., education, intellect, style of speech, mannerisms) that promote social mobility. Middle and upper-class students often possess more cultural capital, which is valued by the education system, giving them an advantage.

What is social capital, and how does it impact education?

Social capital refers to the networks of relationships among people who live and work in a particular society, enabling that society to function effectively. Strong social networks can provide support, information, and opportunities, influencing educational outcomes.

According to Functionalists, what is the concept of role allocation in education?

Education plays a key role in selecting and allocating individuals to appropriate roles in society based on their aptitudes and abilities, ensuring the most talented are placed in the most important positions (meritocracy).

How do different speech codes (Bernstein

Basil Bernstein distinguished between 'restricted code' (used by working-class, context-bound, short sentences) and 'elaborated code' (used by middle-class, explicit, grammatically complex). The education system typically uses 'elaborated code,' disadvantaging working-class students.