EDUCATION & SOCIETY

Foundation of Education

ACTIVITY: pass the curse

SOCIETY

SOCIETY Denotes the totality of social organization and its

complex network of social relationships or social interaction.

The term "society" came from the Latin word societas, which in turn was derived from the noun socius ("comrade, friend, ally"; adjectival form socialis) used to describe a bond or interaction between parties that are friendly, or at least civil.

EDUCATION is seen as a means of

cultural transmission from one generation to another in any given society.

Conflict/Functionalist Theories

KARL MARX EMILE DURKHEIM

Functionalists Assume that consensus is the normal

state in society and conflict represents a breakdown of shared values

Educational reform is to create structures, programs and curricula that are technically advanced, rational, and encourage social unity

Theoretical Perspectives Functional Theories…stresses the

interdependence of the social system, how well the parts are integrated with each other

Emile Durkheim…education in all societies of critical importance in creating moral unity, social cohesion, and harmony…moral values are the foundation of society

Conflict Theories Whereas functionalists

emphasize cohesion, conflict theorists emphasize struggle in explaining social order

Karl Marx the intellectual founder of conflict theories

Conflict Theories Social order is based on the ability of

dominant groups imposing their will on subordinate groups through force, cooptation, and manipulation

The glue of society is economic, political, cultural, and military power

societies try to evolve education systems and policies that would meet the needs, beliefs, attitudes and the aspirations of their people

References: Ottaway, A.K.C. (1980) .Education and Society

An Introduction to the Sociology of Education. New York: The

Humanities Press. Semel, Susan. (Ed.). (2010). Foundations of

education: The essential texts. NY: Routledge Uche, U. (2001). A Sociology of Education of

NCE Students. London: George

“Education is simply the soul of a society as It passes from one generation to another.”

– Gilbert Chesterton