SECTION 11: The Hidden Curriculum

SECTION 39: The Hidden Curriculum

While the formal curriculum is what you learn in lessons (Maths, Sociology), the Hidden Curriculum is what you learn simply by being in school.

• Marxist View (Bowles and Gintis): The hidden curriculum is designed to produce a submissive workforce.

  • Accepting Hierarchy: Learning that the teacher is the boss prepares you for a manager.

  • Fragmented Knowledge: Learning subjects in isolated chunks prevents you from seeing the "big picture" of how society works.

  • Boredom: Learning to tolerate dull lessons prepares you for a dull 9-to-5 job.

• Functionalist View: The hidden curriculum is positive. It teaches you to be punctual, follow universal rules, and work with people from different backgrounds.