PSE4801
ASSIGNMENT 2
2024
[Company address]
, PSE4801 Assignment 2 2024
Question 1
Functionalism and Conflict theory are two very different schools of thought
looking at the same social world. With the focus on Conflict theory in this
instance, discuss how conflict theorists view schooling as social construct. (10)
Conflict theorists view schooling as a social construct that reproduces social
inequalities. They argue that schools do not simply teach children knowledge and
skills, but also socialize them into accepting the dominant culture and the existing
social order. This socialization process benefits the ruling class by ensuring a
compliant workforce and perpetuating their power.
Here are some key points on how conflict theorists view schooling:
• Tracking system: Conflict theorists point to the tracking system in schools,
which sorts students into different academic paths based on their social class
background, as evidence of this process. Students in college prep tracks are
expected to go to college and pursue high-status careers, while those in
vocational tracks are channeled towards working-class jobs.
• Curriculum bias: They also argue that the curriculum often reflects the
values and interests of the dominant class. For example, history curricula
may focus on the achievements of white men, while neglecting the
contributions of women and people of color. This can lead to the
marginalization of students from these groups within the school system.
• Unequal resources: Conflict theorists also point to the unequal distribution
of resources within the school system. Schools in wealthier neighborhoods
tend to have more funding, smaller class sizes, and more experienced
teachers. This gives students from privileged backgrounds a significant
advantage.
Overall, conflict theory offers a critical perspective on education, highlighting how
schools can perpetuate social inequalities rather than promoting social mobility.
For exam pack with questions and answers, quality notes, assignments and exam
help:
email:
WhatsApp: +254792947610
ASSIGNMENT 2
2024
[Company address]
, PSE4801 Assignment 2 2024
Question 1
Functionalism and Conflict theory are two very different schools of thought
looking at the same social world. With the focus on Conflict theory in this
instance, discuss how conflict theorists view schooling as social construct. (10)
Conflict theorists view schooling as a social construct that reproduces social
inequalities. They argue that schools do not simply teach children knowledge and
skills, but also socialize them into accepting the dominant culture and the existing
social order. This socialization process benefits the ruling class by ensuring a
compliant workforce and perpetuating their power.
Here are some key points on how conflict theorists view schooling:
• Tracking system: Conflict theorists point to the tracking system in schools,
which sorts students into different academic paths based on their social class
background, as evidence of this process. Students in college prep tracks are
expected to go to college and pursue high-status careers, while those in
vocational tracks are channeled towards working-class jobs.
• Curriculum bias: They also argue that the curriculum often reflects the
values and interests of the dominant class. For example, history curricula
may focus on the achievements of white men, while neglecting the
contributions of women and people of color. This can lead to the
marginalization of students from these groups within the school system.
• Unequal resources: Conflict theorists also point to the unequal distribution
of resources within the school system. Schools in wealthier neighborhoods
tend to have more funding, smaller class sizes, and more experienced
teachers. This gives students from privileged backgrounds a significant
advantage.
Overall, conflict theory offers a critical perspective on education, highlighting how
schools can perpetuate social inequalities rather than promoting social mobility.
For exam pack with questions and answers, quality notes, assignments and exam
help:
email:
WhatsApp: +254792947610
