8-10pm

LESSON 2:
SOCIOLOGY IN EDUCATION
UNIQUE PERSPECTIVES ON SCHOOL & THEORIES

DR. EDWARD DEVADASON

 8-10pm
LESSON 2:
Today’s Topics:
SOCIOLOGY
IN • Macrosociol o gy
• Microsociology
EDUCATION • Functionalis m
• Conflict Theory
UNIQUE PERSPECTIVES ON
SCHOOL & THEORIES • Symbolic Interaction
• Feminist Theory
 UNIQUE PERSPECTIVES
ON SCHOOL & THEORIES

Macrosociology Microsociology
M acrosociology Theoretical frameworks
is theories that that emphasize personal
strive to social interaction are
understand and known as
interpret society . microsociology .
Durkheim, Marx, F ac e - t o - f ac e e nc o unt e r s
and W e b e r were in which people are
macro- physically present with
so c i o l o gi c al one another for a
theorists. specified duration.
 UNIQUE PERSPECTIVES
ON SCHOOL & THEORIES
Al though there are di ver se theoreti cal per specti ves that
soci ol ogi sts use to under stand soci ety, four theoreti cal tradi ti ons
form the maj or theoreti cal per specti ves.

Symbolic Interactionism
Functionalism Conflict Theory Feminist Theory
FUNCTIONALISM
WHAT?
Functionalism is a sociological perspective and theoretical
framework that views society as a complex system composed of
interrelated parts, each with a specific function or purpose.
WHO?
Durkheim suggested that functionalism conceptualizes society as
having parts that are ‘functional’ for society. Society is more than
the sum of its component parts. These are primarily the institutions
of society, each depending on one another, each of which must
fulfill different needs and have consequences for the form and
shape of society (Boronski & Hassan, 2020).
HOW?
It emphasizes the idea that society functions like an organism, with various
institutions and social structures working together to maintain stability and
equilibrium.
FUNCTIONALISM
FUNCTIONALISM:
SOCIETY AS A SYSTEM OF INTERRELATED PARTS
FUNCTIONALISM sees society as a system of interrelated parts, similar to
how the organs in a biological organism work together to maintain the body's overall health.

EACH PART OF SOCIETY, such as family, education, religion, and government, serves a specific
function that contributes to the stability and functioning of the whole society.

FOR EXAMPLE, functionalists argue that the family institution serves the function of socializing
children and providing emotional support, while the education system functions to transmit
knowledge and skills needed for a productive workforce.

Functionalism has been criticized for i ts conservative outlook and for downplaying conflict and
inequality within society.
Critics argue that i t may oversimplify the complexities of social dynamics and overlook the ways in which social
structures can perpetuate inequalities.
Despite i ts criticisms, functionalism has contributed valuable insights into understanding the interplay of social
institutions and their roles in maintaining social order and equilibrium.
 FUNCTIONALISM:
SOCIETY AS A SYSTEM OF INTERRELATED PARTS

Family Education

Social Order

Religion
Education Crime

(click to return)
 Functionalism in Education

Functionalism in education is a sociological perspective that views educational

institutions as playing a vital role in maintaining and promoting social stability
and equilibrium within a society.

This perspective focuses on the functions of education in preparing individuals

for their roles in society, transmitting cultural values, and fostering social
cohesion.
 Criticism on Functionalism

While functionalism provides valuable insights into the positive functions of education,
it has been criticized for overlooking issues of inequality and social conflict within
educational systems.

Critics argue that it tends to reinforce the status quo and may not adequately address
disparities in educational access and outcomes based on factors such as race, class, and
gender.

Despite these criticisms, functionalism continues to influence discussions

about the societal roles and functions of education.
CONFLICT THEORY
WHAT?
Conflict theory is a sociological perspective that views society as a complex system characterized by inequality,
competition, and conflict over resources and power.
This perspective emphasizes the role of conflict and tension in shaping social structures, institutions, and the
distribution of resources.
WHO?
To get a better insight into the philosopher
Karl Marx and his Conflict Theory, watch this video carefully:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gR3igiwaeyc
HOW?
According to conflict theory, inequality exists because those in control of society’s resources
actively defend their advantages and these groups who have economic advantage use their
social position for their benefit.
They even dominate and control public information and hold power in institutions such as
education and religion that shape what people think and know. Hence, power struggles
between conflicting groups are the source of social change, disruptions, and instability.
CONFLICT THEORY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gR3igiwaeyc
 Conflict Theory in Education
Conflict theory views the function of education as a means to maintain social inequality
and to preserve the power of those who dominate society.

While functionalists claim that schools select based on merit; conflict theorists argue that
schools select along distinct class and ethnic lines.

According to conflict theorists, schools train those in the working classes to accept their
position as lower-class members of society.

Conflict theorists see the education system as a means by which those in power stay in
power.
 Conflict Theory in Education
Check out Robert Kiyosaki:

https://youtube.com/shorts/lHOJ70U07T4?si=ScyDKwuN0rcnUP3r
https://youtube.com/shorts/ICl8s6N19qQ?si=yWyN4bET7rFd8tmF

Read: Rich Dad Poor Dad

 Criticism on Con flict Th eory
While conflict theory offers valuable insights into the role of power, inequality, and social conflict
in educational systems, it has faced criticism in various areas:

1.Overemphasis on Conflict:
Critics argue that conflict theory tends to overly emphasize conflict and power struggles,
sometimes overlooking the collaborative and cooperative aspects of education.
They contend that not all educational interactions are inherently adversarial, and that
cooperation and consensus also play a role in educational processes

2. Simplistic View of Education:

Some critics suggest that conflict theory provides a simplified view of education by primarily
framing it as a tool for reproducing and legitimizing social inequalities.
While acknowledging the existence of inequalities, these critics argue that education can also be a
force for positive change and social mobility.
 Criticism on Con flict Th eory
3. Limited Emphasis on Agency:
Conflict theory can sometimes be criticized for presenting individuals as passive victims of
structural inequalities.
Critics argue that it doesn't adequately address the agency of individuals and groups who actively
challenge and resist oppressive systems within educational institutions.

4. Lack of Practical Solutions:

Conflict theory tends to focus on highlighting societal issues and power imbalances without
always offering concrete solutions or strategies for addressing these problems.
Critics contend that a more pragmatic approach is needed to address educational inequalities
effectively.

5. One-Sided View of Educational Institutions:

Conflict theory tends to view educational institutions primarily as instruments of social control and
domination.
Critics argue that schools also serve valuable functions in terms of knowledge dissemination, skill
development, and socialization, which should not be overlooked.
SYMBOLIC INTERACTIONISM

WHAT?

Symbolic interactionism is a sociological perspective that focuses on the role of

symbols, meanings, and social interactions in shaping human behavior and society.
It emphasizes the importance of the symbols and signs that people use to interpret
and communicate with one another.

For a better understanding of symbolic interactionism, watch this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ux2E6uhEVk0
SYMBOLIC INTERACTIONISM

1. MEANINGS AND SYMBOLS:

Symbolic interactionism asserts that humans act based on the meanings they
assign to things, rather than simply reacting to objective reality. Symbols,
which can be words, gestures, objects, or even concepts, are central to the
creation and communication of these meanings.

For example, the meaning of a red traffic light is not inherent in the light
itself but is socially constructed. People understand that red means "stop"
because this meaning has been collectively agreed upon within society.
SYMBOLIC INTERACTIONISM
2. SOCIAL INTERACTION AND THE SELF:

• Symbolic interactionism places a strong emphasis on social interaction as the primary context in
which meaning is created and shared.

Individuals engage in a continuous process of social interaction through which they negotiate, modify,
and refine their understanding of the world.

• The theory also emphasizes the development of the self, which is the individual's sense of identity.

The self is not a fixed entity but emerges and evolves through social interactions.

People learn to see themselves as others see them, which contributes to their self-concept and self-
esteem.
 SUMMARY of Symbolic Interactionism

Highlights the significance of symbols and social interactions in shaping

human behavior and society.

It emphasizes that individuals actively engage in the interpretation of

symbols and meanings as they navigate their social worlds.

This perspective is particularly valuable for understanding how people

construct their identities, engage in communication, and develop a shared
understanding of reality through their interactions with others.
 Symbolic Interactionism in Education

Symbolic interactionism, when applied to education, focuses on

understanding how individuals, particularly students and teachers, interact
within educational settings and how these interactions shape learning,
identity development, and educational outcomes.

In practical terms, symbolic interactionism in education can be used to inform

teaching practices and classroom management.
 Symbolic Interactionism in Education

Teachers who adopt this perspective may focus on improving communication, creating
an inclusive classroom environment, and recognizing the role of individual
perceptions and interpretations in the learning process.

Additionally, educators can use symbolic interactionism to better understand how

students construct their educational identities and adapt their teaching strategies
accordingly to support positive identity development and academic success.
Examples of Symbolic Interactionism in Education

Grades and Feedback: When a teacher assigns a grade to a student's assignment or test, it is a
symbolic representation of the student's performance. The grade communicates how well the
student understood and applied the material.

Classroom Participation: Classroom participation involves symbolic interaction as students

raise their hands, respond to questions, or engage in class discussions. A student who actively
participates may be seen as eager to learn, while a student who remains silent may convey
shyness or disinterest.

Body Language and Eye Contact: Nonverbal communication through body language and eye
contact is a form of symbolic interaction.

Teacher's Tone of Voice: The tone of a teacher's voice can carry symbolic meaning. A warm
and encouraging tone can symbolize support and encouragement, while a stern or critical
tone may signal disappointment or the need for improvement.
 Critics on Symbolic Interactionism
There were various concerns raised and limitations associated with applying symbolic
interactionism to the study of educational systems and practices. Here are some common criticisms:

1.Overlooking Structural Factors:

Critics contend that symbolic interactionism tends to downplay the role of larger social structures
and systemic factors, such as socioeconomic status, race, and gender, in shaping educational
experiences and outcomes.
They argue that ignoring these structural influences can lead to an incomplete understanding of
educational inequalities.

2. Inability to Address Policy Issues:

Symbolic interactionism may not provide concrete solutions or policy recommendations for
addressing systemic educational issues. Critics argue that it may be more focused on describing
individual interactions rather than offering guidance on how to address complex educational
problems.
 Critics on Symbolic Interactionism

There were various concerns raised and limitations associated with applying symbolic
interactionism to the study of educational systems and practices. Here are some common criticisms:

3. Limited Emphasis on Power and Inequality:

While symbolic interactionism acknowledges the role of symbols and meanings, it may not give
sufficient attention to power dynamics and structural inequalities within educational systems.
Critics argue that this perspective may not adequately address issues related to educational
access, funding disparities, and policy decisions that impact marginalized groups.
FEMINIST THEORY
WHAT?
Feminist theory takes gender as a primary lens through which to view society. It claims that
without considering gender in society, one’s analysis and interpretation of any social behaviour
is incomplete and incorrect.

Before the 1960s, women were not present in most sociological work and academic work.
Women were then strongly stereotyped in traditional roles as wives and mothers.

With the emergence of second-wave feminism (the 1960s-1970s), feminist theory studied and
understood the status of women in society and that knowledge was instrumental in improving
women’s lives.

By focusing on the experiences of women and transforming what is understood about men, the
feminist theory provides novel ways of seeing the world and contributes to a more complete
view of society.
FEMINIST THEORY

For more views and concepts of feminist theory, watch this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6Dl-9pSW-4
 Feminist Theory in Education
Feminist theory in education is an approach that applies feminist
perspectives and insights to the study of educational systems, practices,
and policies.

It seeks to analyze, critique, and challenge the gender-based inequalities

and biases present in education and to promote
gender equity and social justice within educational settings.
 Feminist Theory in Education
In practical terms, feminist theory in education can guide the development of more
inclusive and equitable educational policies and practices. It encourages educators and
institutions to:

• Examine and revise curricula to ensure they are free from gender bias and reflect
diverse gender perspectives.

• Implement anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies to create safe and

respectful learning environments.

• Encourage girls and women to pursue STEM (science, technology, engineering, and
mathematics) fields and other areas traditionally underrepresented by women.

• Promote gender-sensitive pedagogies that consider the diverse needs and

experiences of students of all genders.
 Feminist Theory in Education

Feminist theory in education is a dynamic field that continues to evolve and adapt to
changing societal norms and educational contexts, ultimately aiming to advance
gender equality and social justice within educational systems.
DISCUSSION