,HED4809 ASSIGNMENT 1 2026
DUE DATE: 2026
________________________________________________________________________
QUESTION 1
1.1 B
1.2 B
1.3 C
1.4 C
1.5 C
QUESTION 2
2.1 Functionalism and schooling (10 marks)
Functionalist theory views schooling as a fundamental institution that contributes to the
smooth functioning, cohesion, and stability of society by preparing individuals to integrate
effectively into the social system. According to this perspective, education is not merely
about academic knowledge, but rather about the transmission of shared norms, values, and
cultural expectations that enable individuals to participate productively in society
(Durkheim, 1956). Through the process of socialisation, schools teach learners discipline,
respect for authority, cooperation, and punctuality, all of which are essential for
maintaining social order and ensuring that individuals are able to adapt to adult roles in the
workplace and broader society. In this way, education functions as a bridge between the
family and the wider social world, gradually transforming individuals into socially
responsible citizens who understand and accept societal expectations (Parsons, 1959).
, Furthermore, Functionalists argue that schooling plays a central role in maintaining social
stability by promoting value consensus, meaning that members of society share common
beliefs about what is right, fair, and necessary for social order. Schools contribute to this
stability by standardising knowledge through a national curriculum, ensuring that all
learners are exposed to similar content, values, and expectations regardless of background
(Dreeben, 1968). This shared educational experience fosters national unity and reduces
social fragmentation by encouraging learners to identify with a collective identity rather
than purely individual or group interests. In addition, education acts as a mechanism of role
allocation, where learners are sorted and selected based on ability, effort, and achievement,
theoretically ensuring that the most capable individuals are placed into the most
appropriate positions in society (Davis & Moore, 1945).
Functionalist theory also distinguishes between the manifest and latent functions of
education, both of which contribute to the overall functioning of society. Manifest functions
refer to the intended and openly recognised purposes of schooling, such as teaching literacy
and numeracy skills, preparing learners for employment, and certifying competence
through qualifications (Merton, 1968). These functions are essential for economic
productivity and social development, as they ensure that individuals acquire the skills
required for participation in the labour market. Latent functions, on the other hand, are
unintended outcomes of schooling that are not explicitly planned but still have significant
social effects. These include the development of peer networks, the reinforcement of social
norms such as obedience and punctuality, and the creation of social relationships that may
influence future opportunities. Together, both manifest and latent functions demonstrate
how education contributes not only to individual development but also to the maintenance
of social order and stability in society (Merton, 1968).
2.2 Conflict Theory and Schooling (10 marks)
DUE DATE: 2026
________________________________________________________________________
QUESTION 1
1.1 B
1.2 B
1.3 C
1.4 C
1.5 C
QUESTION 2
2.1 Functionalism and schooling (10 marks)
Functionalist theory views schooling as a fundamental institution that contributes to the
smooth functioning, cohesion, and stability of society by preparing individuals to integrate
effectively into the social system. According to this perspective, education is not merely
about academic knowledge, but rather about the transmission of shared norms, values, and
cultural expectations that enable individuals to participate productively in society
(Durkheim, 1956). Through the process of socialisation, schools teach learners discipline,
respect for authority, cooperation, and punctuality, all of which are essential for
maintaining social order and ensuring that individuals are able to adapt to adult roles in the
workplace and broader society. In this way, education functions as a bridge between the
family and the wider social world, gradually transforming individuals into socially
responsible citizens who understand and accept societal expectations (Parsons, 1959).
, Furthermore, Functionalists argue that schooling plays a central role in maintaining social
stability by promoting value consensus, meaning that members of society share common
beliefs about what is right, fair, and necessary for social order. Schools contribute to this
stability by standardising knowledge through a national curriculum, ensuring that all
learners are exposed to similar content, values, and expectations regardless of background
(Dreeben, 1968). This shared educational experience fosters national unity and reduces
social fragmentation by encouraging learners to identify with a collective identity rather
than purely individual or group interests. In addition, education acts as a mechanism of role
allocation, where learners are sorted and selected based on ability, effort, and achievement,
theoretically ensuring that the most capable individuals are placed into the most
appropriate positions in society (Davis & Moore, 1945).
Functionalist theory also distinguishes between the manifest and latent functions of
education, both of which contribute to the overall functioning of society. Manifest functions
refer to the intended and openly recognised purposes of schooling, such as teaching literacy
and numeracy skills, preparing learners for employment, and certifying competence
through qualifications (Merton, 1968). These functions are essential for economic
productivity and social development, as they ensure that individuals acquire the skills
required for participation in the labour market. Latent functions, on the other hand, are
unintended outcomes of schooling that are not explicitly planned but still have significant
social effects. These include the development of peer networks, the reinforcement of social
norms such as obedience and punctuality, and the creation of social relationships that may
influence future opportunities. Together, both manifest and latent functions demonstrate
how education contributes not only to individual development but also to the maintenance
of social order and stability in society (Merton, 1968).
2.2 Conflict Theory and Schooling (10 marks)
