Functionalist perspective of education Today’s Lesson: To investigate the functionalist perspective on education. Starter… Mind map some purposes of education

Functions of Education Develops independence Socialisation Functions of Education Teaches norms and values Co-operation Develops routines Qualifications

Learning Outcomes ALL should be able to identify a selection of functions of education identified by functionalist sociologists. [D grade] MOST should be able to demonstrate their understanding of the functions of education identified by Durkheim, Parsons and Davis and Moore. [C grade] SOME may be able to demonstrate their understanding of the functions of education identified by Durkheim, Parsons and Davis and Moore and in addition being able to evaluate these perspectives. [A grade]

Purpose of Education - Functionalism Three main purposes of education Functionalists identify: 1) Education teaches the skills needed for work and also by the economy. 2)The Allocation Function 3) Secondary Socialisation – Passing on Core Values.

Durkheim Education transmits of society’s norms and values History teaching creates a link between the individual and society. History teaching creating the link between the individual and society leads to social solidarity.

Are there any weaknesses in Durkheim’s theory? Compared school to a miniature society. Children learn to interact with others and follow set rules preparing them to become adult member of society and to accept social rules. Value Consensus Are there any weaknesses in Durkheim’s theory?

Weaknesses in Durkheim’s Theory Things to consider :- How successful is Education in teaching the norms and values of society? Does everyone share the same norms and values?

The most talented people reach the top Parsons Three major functions of education for Parsons are: Acts as a bridge between the family and adult roles. Passes on universal value of achievement socializing the young in the norms and values of society. Allocates appropriate roles of children as education is meritocratic. The most talented people reach the top

Davis and Moore Key function – role allocation Education system sifts and sorts individuals according to their ability – meritocratic. Davis and Moore’s perspective is similar to Parsons. How far is it true to say that the education system sifts and sorts individuals into appropriate roles according to their abilities?

Consolidating today’s learning Task: Colour in the boxes of texts matching it to either Durkheim, Parsons or Davis and Moore, there is a possibility of some being more than one of them! Time: 10 Minutes

Criticisms of Functionalism Functionalists don’t consider that there may not be a single set of values to be transmitted. If society does transmit values, it could be the values of the bourgeoisie or the elite. Assume education is Meritocratic, although evidence can show this may not be the case. Who you know is more important in some societies than what you know – Meritocratic function doesn’t work.

Learning Outcomes – Have we met them? ALL should be able to identify a selection of functions of education identified by functionalist sociologists. [D grade] MOST should be able to demonstrate their understanding of the functions of education identified by Durkheim, Parsons and Davis and Moore. [C grade] SOME may be able to demonstrate their understanding of the functions of education identified by Durkheim, Parsons and Davis and Moore and in addition being able to evaluate these perspectives. [A grade]