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Functionalism and education (Durkheim (Specialist work skills, Learning…
Functionalism and education
Functionalists argue
Societies stick together and work together successfully without falling apart
Institutions provide order so society can run smoothly
Shared values and beliefs help society together
Education performs 3 functions;
Socialisation- Learning the norms and values of society, and how to behave correctly within society.
Skills provision - education teaches the skills required by a modern society
Role allocation- Davis and Moore claim education allocates people to the most appropriate job to suit their talent.
Durkheim
Specialist work skills
Learning social rules
Linking individuals and society
Education should emphasise the moral responsibilities that members of society should have towards each other.
History important in education so members of society can develop a sense of loyalty to their society.
Individualism in modern society could lead to too little social solidarity and result in anomie.
Parsons
Created the idea of meritocracy, this is a society where success or failure is based on merit. Merit is as a result of a combination between ability and hard work.
Evaluation
Functionalism heavily criticised for emphasising positive aspects of education and not negative.
Assumes education succeeds in socialising individuals - some students don't conform to social norms.
The education system often criticised for not equipping students with necessary skills needed for the economy so idea of skills provision is flawed.
Functionalism ignores social divisions and claims that all individuals have an equal opportunity to succeed in education - doesn't take into account factors such as ethnicity and gender on educational attainment.