ESC3701 Assignment 2 2026 - Distinction | Due 10 May 2026

ESC3701 Assignment 2 2026 Opened: Thursday, 1 January 2026, 8:00 AM Due: Wednesday, 10 June 2026, 9:00 PM 673824 Sociology of Education  Question 1 From a sociological point of view, education fulfils a number of functions. Provide a brief explanation of how the function ‘activation of constructive and creative forces’ can be understood.                                         (10) QUESTION 2          Talcott Parsons elaborates on how society functions as a system, thereby creating balance and equilibrium. With the above in mind, briefly explain Parsons’s view on the fundamental premises of functionalism.                              (10 QUESTION 3 Conflict Theorists have identified certain assumptions as being evident in the foundation of conflict theory. Briefly elaborate on the assumptions of conflict theory.         (10) QUESTION 4 Symbolic interactionism has been associated with family studies since the 1920s. Briefly discuss in your own words how this theory is applied to family studies.             (10) QUESTION 5 Social institutions can be understood as established subsystems that satisfy society's basic needs. Each institution has distinct responsibilities that contribute to society's overall functioning and stability. Briefly explain the role of religion and the economy as social institutions.                                             (10)