SED2601
Assignment 2
Unique No: 209428
Due 25 June 2025
,SED2601
Assignment 2
Unique No: 209428
Due 25 June 2025
Question 1: The Sociology of Education
1.1 Sociology of Education
The sociology of education is a specialized subfield within sociology that critically
examines the relationships between social structures, institutions, and processes, and
their influence on educational systems and outcomes. It investigates how education
functions as a social institution, shaping individual identities and social inequalities,
while also being shaped by broader societal forces such as class, race, gender, and
culture (Ballantine & Hammack, 2017). This discipline analyzes how educational
practices, policies, and structures can reproduce existing social hierarchies or serve as
mechanisms for social change, making it essential for understanding societal
stratification and mobility.
1.2 What is the Meaning of the Word ‘Education’?
Education extends beyond mere transmission of knowledge; it is a multifaceted and
systematic process of acquiring skills, understanding societal values, and developing
critical attitudes. It occurs through formal channels like schools and universities, as well
as informal settings such as family, community, and cultural interactions (Dewey, 1916).
Education aims to equip individuals with intellectual and social competencies necessary
for active participation in society, fostering personal growth and societal development. It
is both a transformative personal experience and a societal mechanism for maintaining
or challenging established norms and structures (Bourdieu & Passeron, 1990).
, 1.3 Explain the Following Concepts
a) Meritocracy
Meritocracy is a social system in which rewards and opportunities are distributed based
on individual talent, effort, and measurable achievement, rather than inherited status or
social background (Young, 1958). In education, it suggests that academic success and
social mobility are determined by personal ability and hard work. However, critics argue
that meritocracy often masks underlying structural inequalities, benefiting privileged
groups while marginalizing others.
b) Social Class
Social class refers to a hierarchical categorization of individuals based on economic
resources, occupational prestige, education, and overall social status (Weber, 1946). It
influences access to educational opportunities and shapes life chances, perpetuating
social inequalities across generations through differential cultural and economic capital.
c) Solidarity
Solidarity denotes a strong sense of unity and mutual support among individuals or
groups, grounded in shared values or experiences (Durkheim, 1893). In education,
solidarity can manifest in collective actions by teachers or students, fostering a sense of
belonging and cohesion within the school community.
d) Micro-sociological Approach
The micro-sociological approach focuses on detailed analysis of everyday social
interactions, individual behaviors, and subjective meanings within specific contexts
(Blumer, 1969). In education, it examines teacher-student interactions, peer dynamics,
and classroom processes that influence socialization and learning.
e) Macro-sociological Approach
The macro-sociological approach analyzes large-scale social structures, institutions,
and systemic patterns (Parsons, 1951). In education, it studies how policies, economic
Assignment 2
Unique No: 209428
Due 25 June 2025
,SED2601
Assignment 2
Unique No: 209428
Due 25 June 2025
Question 1: The Sociology of Education
1.1 Sociology of Education
The sociology of education is a specialized subfield within sociology that critically
examines the relationships between social structures, institutions, and processes, and
their influence on educational systems and outcomes. It investigates how education
functions as a social institution, shaping individual identities and social inequalities,
while also being shaped by broader societal forces such as class, race, gender, and
culture (Ballantine & Hammack, 2017). This discipline analyzes how educational
practices, policies, and structures can reproduce existing social hierarchies or serve as
mechanisms for social change, making it essential for understanding societal
stratification and mobility.
1.2 What is the Meaning of the Word ‘Education’?
Education extends beyond mere transmission of knowledge; it is a multifaceted and
systematic process of acquiring skills, understanding societal values, and developing
critical attitudes. It occurs through formal channels like schools and universities, as well
as informal settings such as family, community, and cultural interactions (Dewey, 1916).
Education aims to equip individuals with intellectual and social competencies necessary
for active participation in society, fostering personal growth and societal development. It
is both a transformative personal experience and a societal mechanism for maintaining
or challenging established norms and structures (Bourdieu & Passeron, 1990).
, 1.3 Explain the Following Concepts
a) Meritocracy
Meritocracy is a social system in which rewards and opportunities are distributed based
on individual talent, effort, and measurable achievement, rather than inherited status or
social background (Young, 1958). In education, it suggests that academic success and
social mobility are determined by personal ability and hard work. However, critics argue
that meritocracy often masks underlying structural inequalities, benefiting privileged
groups while marginalizing others.
b) Social Class
Social class refers to a hierarchical categorization of individuals based on economic
resources, occupational prestige, education, and overall social status (Weber, 1946). It
influences access to educational opportunities and shapes life chances, perpetuating
social inequalities across generations through differential cultural and economic capital.
c) Solidarity
Solidarity denotes a strong sense of unity and mutual support among individuals or
groups, grounded in shared values or experiences (Durkheim, 1893). In education,
solidarity can manifest in collective actions by teachers or students, fostering a sense of
belonging and cohesion within the school community.
d) Micro-sociological Approach
The micro-sociological approach focuses on detailed analysis of everyday social
interactions, individual behaviors, and subjective meanings within specific contexts
(Blumer, 1969). In education, it examines teacher-student interactions, peer dynamics,
and classroom processes that influence socialization and learning.
e) Macro-sociological Approach
The macro-sociological approach analyzes large-scale social structures, institutions,
and systemic patterns (Parsons, 1951). In education, it studies how policies, economic
