Education and Social Mobility

A set of vocabulary flashcards summarizing key terms related to Education and Social Mobility.

Social mobility

The ability to move up or down the class structure.

Inter-generational mobility

The movement between generations, such as differences between a parent and their adult child's occupation.

Intra-generational mobility

An individual's mobility over their life, comparing starting occupation with occupation at retirement.

Meritocracy

A societal system where individuals are rewarded based on their achievements and abilities rather than ascribed status.

Functionalism in education

The belief that the education system serves as a bridge between the family and the economy, providing necessary social mobility.

Sponsored mobility

A concept by Neo-Marxists suggesting that upper and middle classes benefit more from the education system than the working class.

Social closure

A situation where higher social classes restrict competition, resulting in the lack of true meritocracy.

Marketisation

The process by which the supply and consumption of educational goods and services are opened to competition.

Cultural capital

Elements of an individual's cultural background that provide advantages in education and employment.

Parentocracy

The influence of wealth and resources of parents on their children's educational opportunities.