Educator as Researcher, Scholar and Lifelong Learner
Exam Notes
Question 1
True or False? Give a brief motivation/argument to substantiate your choice. Write only the
number, true or false and the reason for your answer.
1. The approach in this module is based on the principles of structural functionalism.
FALSE – It is based on Critical Rationalism.
(Structural functionalism, or simply functionalism, is a framework for building theory
that sees society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote solidarity
and stability.[1] This approach looks at society through a macro-level orientation, which is
a broad focus on the social structures that shape society as a whole, and believes that
society has evolved like organisms.[2] )
(Critical rationalism is a kind of evolving philosophical tradition concerning how we
should approach knowledge. It is the Socratic method only with a little bit of modern
awareness. While most philosophical traditions regard knowledge as something that has
to be certain and justified, CR takes the view that we don’t have ultimate answers, but
knowledge is nevertheless possible. Truth is an endless quest. The modern founder of
critical rationalism was Karl Popper. Popper pointed out we can never justify anything, we
merely criticize and weed out bad ideas and work with what’s left.)
2. The approach of this module is based on problem-solving, questioning and argument.
- TRUE. It is based on CR which entails those things. “CR is also known as the theory of
critical analysis because it entails constant questioning of our taken-for-granted
assumptions or notions of ‘truth’ or ‘knowledge’. The educator as researcher, scholar and
lifelong learner, should always ask critical questions, try to solve problems and be open
to criticism from other scholars. Classroom practice should mostly consist of questioning,
dialogue and debate.”
3. Research, problem-solving and questioning are all tools of a philosophy called critical
functionalism.
- FALSE. It is called critical rationalism.
4. Teachers and learners should question what they are told and need to be open to new ideas
and solutions.
- TRUE. Critical rationalism is also known as the theory of critical analysis because it
entails constant questioning of our taken-for-granted assumptions or notions of “truth”
or “knowledge”. CR entails that educators and learners always ask critical questions.
5. It is not a requirement for well-trained educators to conduct research because that is not
their business.
- FALSE. It is absolutely necessary for educators to be researchers as there are many
problems in education which need thought and solutions.
L.Laubser 2015
Exam Notes
Question 1
True or False? Give a brief motivation/argument to substantiate your choice. Write only the
number, true or false and the reason for your answer.
1. The approach in this module is based on the principles of structural functionalism.
FALSE – It is based on Critical Rationalism.
(Structural functionalism, or simply functionalism, is a framework for building theory
that sees society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote solidarity
and stability.[1] This approach looks at society through a macro-level orientation, which is
a broad focus on the social structures that shape society as a whole, and believes that
society has evolved like organisms.[2] )
(Critical rationalism is a kind of evolving philosophical tradition concerning how we
should approach knowledge. It is the Socratic method only with a little bit of modern
awareness. While most philosophical traditions regard knowledge as something that has
to be certain and justified, CR takes the view that we don’t have ultimate answers, but
knowledge is nevertheless possible. Truth is an endless quest. The modern founder of
critical rationalism was Karl Popper. Popper pointed out we can never justify anything, we
merely criticize and weed out bad ideas and work with what’s left.)
2. The approach of this module is based on problem-solving, questioning and argument.
- TRUE. It is based on CR which entails those things. “CR is also known as the theory of
critical analysis because it entails constant questioning of our taken-for-granted
assumptions or notions of ‘truth’ or ‘knowledge’. The educator as researcher, scholar and
lifelong learner, should always ask critical questions, try to solve problems and be open
to criticism from other scholars. Classroom practice should mostly consist of questioning,
dialogue and debate.”
3. Research, problem-solving and questioning are all tools of a philosophy called critical
functionalism.
- FALSE. It is called critical rationalism.
4. Teachers and learners should question what they are told and need to be open to new ideas
and solutions.
- TRUE. Critical rationalism is also known as the theory of critical analysis because it
entails constant questioning of our taken-for-granted assumptions or notions of “truth”
or “knowledge”. CR entails that educators and learners always ask critical questions.
5. It is not a requirement for well-trained educators to conduct research because that is not
their business.
- FALSE. It is absolutely necessary for educators to be researchers as there are many
problems in education which need thought and solutions.
L.Laubser 2015
