Sociology of Education State Policy Sociology of Education

AQA It sounds quite dull ‘State Policy’ but this is a topic that has profound effects upon society. You will find that this is and always has been a major electoral issue. It demonstrates the so called ‘caring’ side of a political party. When elected parties are judged upon their performance of ‘State Education Policy’ .

Sociology of State Education Policy So you are asking what does this mean to me and my study?

The list You will need to examine 3 key areas Examine the history of state policy Development of current educational of policy from 2a. Conservative policy from 1979-1997 2b. Labour policy from 1997 – 2005

Finally the relationship! Primarily we are considering the relationship between ‘State Policy’ and the experience of the role and effects of education. This last dimension moves beyond a plain historical analysis and allows us to breathe sociology!

Task In pairs go on the Guardian website or TES (click on the links) and investigate current election issues regarding education. Or perhaps visit the political parties web site see the next two slides for this. What does each party (Conservatives and Labour) propose for educational policy? Give three examples of policy and print them off to give to your lecturer for further discussion. 10 minutes Tic toc

Web sites: Conservative Policy Conservative party This is clearly set out and easily to read http://www.conservatives.com/tile.do?def=policy.topic.page&tabID=3 Policy document very detailed but if you are ambitious have a look http://www.conservatives.com/tile.do?def=policy.listing.page

Web sites: Labour Party Policy that is very clearly set out http://www.labour.org.uk/education04/ Very interesting is the link on ‘what Labour is doing in your area’ click on it and find out how it is educationally working for you At the bottom of the page gives you a link to more detailed policy

Evaluation: Future study for the ambitious On a chart plot the comparisons and similarities between the two parties. When you have completed the historical detail of policy see whether you can map the links between current and past policy. Are they repeating past ideas and themes?

Further research Go to the library and read further around this topic. Choose a book that suits your style. You could try these: Sociology in Focus pages 130-140 Haralambos & Holborn 6th edition pages 711 (New Right) 713 (changes in education 1979-97) 720 (New labour and educational policies in Britain) 720 (critical evaluations)