Module One

PAPER THREE – THEORIES ABOUT THE ROLE OF EDUCATION

Introduction

This module should be read in conjunction with the Programme of Study.

The Programme of Study lists the topics that are in the module and gives you the relevant page references for your textbook. This module aims to give you more direction as you work through the various topics. It will aim to highlight the most important items in the topic, as well as areas that need particular care. It will also point you towards the resources you should be using.

Remember to double-check the syllabus to make sure you cover all the items that you need to.

Module Overview

We begin the course with Paper 3: Education. This follows the same order as the textbook. In this module, we will start by looking at Section A and the role of education in society.

This module introduces the key sociological theories and related views on education. Here we examine the purpose of education in society and the extent to which it has a positive impact on all pupils. You will consider whether education should have a socialising role and whether it should exist to serve the needs of the economic system.

Within the textbook, you will find a number of questions and activities. You must cover these as part of your notetaking.

Topics

Topic One (1.1): Functionalist Views on Education

Topic Two (1.2): Marxist Views on Education

Topic Three (1.3): Education and Cultural Reproduction

Topic Four (1.4): Social Democratic and New Right Views on Education

Topic Five (1.5): Consolidation