EDUCATIONAL SOCIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES
DEFINATION OF TERMS
1.Sociological Perspectives- Refers to different ways of looking at and understanding society and
human behavior.
-is a way of understanding how our surroundings and social environments shape who we are and
how we behave.
2. Educational Sociological Perspective- Refers to the different ways that sociologist study and
interpret the role of education in the society.
-is a way of looking at education that examines how social factors such as culture, class and
community influence the educational experience.
The functionalist perspective
In sociology, functionalism theory views society as a complex system where different parts like
institutions, family, government work together to maintain stability and order, with each part
serving a specific function to ensure the smooth operation of the whole, much like the organs in a
human body.
From this theory, functionalist perspective in sociology view education as a crucial social
institution that plays a significant role in maintaining the stability and functionality of the
society. It emphasizes on how education contributes to the overall social order.
The functionalist perspective on education
-Role allocation & sorting
-Social order and Stability
-Equitable opportunities
-Social integration
-Transmission of knowledge and skills
-Conflict resolution
-Latent function
The Implications
1. Role Allocation & Sorting
What education is expected to do: Education helps students figure out their strengths and
interests, so they can be placed in the right roles in society. For example, some people might be
good at teaching, while others may be better at welding or drawing
What should happen in the education sector: Schools should provide different subjects,
including both academic and practical lessons, to help students discover what they are good at.
This way, students can choose a career that suits their skills.
Example, schools offer both subjects like math and English, and practical subjects like computer
studies or D&T , ART. This helps students decide whether they want to go into office jobs or
practical work.
2. Social Order and Stability
What education is expected to do: Education should teach students how to follow rules and
show respect for others. This helps create a peaceful society where everyone understands how to
behave properly.
What should happen in the education sector: Schools need to have clear rules for students to
follow, like being on time for class, respecting teachers, and behaving well. Schools should also
teach why following rules is important for keeping peace in society.
Example, schools have rules about being punctual and respecting teachers. If students break
these rules, they might be given a warning or detention. This helps students learn how to respect
others and behave responsibly.
3. Equitable Opportunities
What education is expected to do: Education should give every student, no matter their
background or family income, a chance to succeed and do well in life.
What should happen in the education sector: Schools should make sure that all students have
access to the same opportunities, like free education and support like free meals, so that everyone
can learn without worrying about money.
Example, education is free, and schools also offer free meals to students from low-income
families. This helps ensure that all children can attend school, even if their parents cannot afford
to pay for it.
4. Social Integration
What education is expected to do: Education should bring together students from different
backgrounds and teach them to respect each other, even if they are from different tribes or
cultures.
What should happen in the education sector: Schools should encourage activities and events
that help students get to know each other and learn about different cultures.
Example: schools often organize events where students share their different cultures, dances, and
songs. This helps students understand and respect each other, promoting unity in the country.
5. Transmission of Knowledge and Skills
What education is expected to do: Education should teach students not just academic subjects,
but also practical skills that will help them later in life, like problem-solving, communication,
and managing money.
What should happen in the education sector: Schools should offer lessons that help students
learn both academic knowledge and useful life skills. This will prepare them for the future.
Example, business studies and home economics. These lessons help them understand how to start
a business or manage their household, which are important skills for everyday life.
6. Conflict Resolution
What education is expected to do: Education should teach students how to handle
disagreements and solve problems without fighting. This helps create a peaceful and cooperative
society.
What should happen in the education sector: Schools should teach students how to talk
through problems and listen to others, so they can resolve conflicts calmly and peacefully.
Example, if two students argue in a class, a teacher might help them sit down and talk about the
issue. For example, if one student feels upset because another student took their pencil, the
teacher will guide them to explain their feelings and find a solution, such as sharing the pencil.
This helps students learn how to handle conflicts calmly, instead of fighting.
7. Latent Function (Childcare)
What education is expected to do: Education should also keep children safe and occupied
during the day, which helps parents work and reduces the risk of children getting involved in bad
activities.
What should happen in the education sector: Schools should offer after-school activities like
sports or arts clubs to keep children busy in a healthy way.
Example, many schools have after-school activities like football or music clubs. These activities
help students stay engaged, develop new skills, and avoid getting involved in bad behavior
outside of school.
