Education Theories: Functionalism, Marxism, and Neoliberal Perspectives

What are the two main functions of education according to Durkheim?

Social solidarity and specialist skills.

How does the education system create social solidarity?

By transmitting society's culture, norms, and values from one generation to the next.

What does Parsons argue about schools?

He argues that schools are meritocratic and serve as a bridge between family and society.

What is a meritocracy?

A system where success is based on ability, talent, effort, and achievements rather than family wealth or social class.

What function do Davis and Moore believe schools perform?

They select and allocate pupils to future work roles based on their attitudes and abilities.

Why do Davis and Moore argue that inequalities in society are necessary?

To ensure that the most talented individuals undertake important roles.

What is one criticism of Functionalism regarding education?

Equal opportunities in education may not exist, as achievement is greatly influenced by class.

What do Marxists argue about the values instilled by education?

They argue that education instills the values of the ruling class rather than a shared national culture.

What is the New Right perspective on education?

They believe education is inefficient and does not achieve its goals, advocating for competition and choice.

What do Chubb and Moe argue about state education?

They argue that it has failed to create opportunities because it does not respond to pupils' needs.

What is marketisation in education?

A process that creates an education market where schools must respond to the needs of teachers, parents, and pupils.

What do critics say about competition between schools?

They argue it mainly benefits the middle class, who have the knowledge to navigate the education system.

What are Althusser's views on the education system?

He argues that it performs functions to maintain bourgeois power through ideological state apparatuses.

According to Bowles and Gintis, what do schools prepare students for?

They prepare students to be exploited within the capitalist system, recreating class inequalities.

What is a criticism of the Marxist perspective on education?

It assumes students have no free will and passively accept being programmed.

What do Functionalists believe about the role of education in society?

They believe it instills the values necessary for social cohesion and prepares individuals for their roles in the workforce.

What is the significance of the term 'ideological state apparatus' in education?

It refers to the ways education helps to control people's ideas, values, and beliefs to maintain class inequality.

How do Functionalists view the relationship between education and social mobility?

They view education as a means to achieve social mobility based on merit.

What is the impact of class on educational achievement according to critics?

Critics argue that class significantly influences educational achievement, undermining the meritocratic ideal.

What role does education play in the social division of labor?

It teaches the specialist knowledge and skills needed for various roles within the labor market.

How do New Right theorists propose to improve education?

By promoting competition and choice through market mechanisms.

What is the relationship between education and economic performance according to the New Right?

They believe that poor educational outcomes lead to a poor economy.