Answer to Question #128477 in English for Been seen

Question

8According to the functionalist theory, schools have the following important social functions

Answer 1

According to the functionalist theory, schools have the following important social functions

              The functionalist theory holds that society is a conglomeration of related parts, working in tandem to create harmony and balance. It focuses on how each affects or is affected by other parts of society. Functionalist believes that schools should have the following social functions. The functions are into two:

1. Manifest (primary) functions
2. Latent (secondary)

 

Manifest functions 

       Firstly, school teaches socialization, from the onset of schooling, pupils are taught and led to socializing with their classmates. Education also creates solidarity as students have a sense of belonging through the learning of subjects such as history.

         

Secondly, school teaches core values such as adherence to the rules and respecting authority and inculcating national values. This prepares students for the world after school and workplaces, where they will be subject to laws and authority.

         

Thirdly, school plays a vital role in social placement. Education is a tool for an upward trajectory. Education helps in teaching specialist skills which guide individual to their preferred careers. It allows students to scale the ladder of life to more advantageous positions.

          

Fourthly, school helps in role allocation. Education allocates individual roles based on performance in exams and tests. The examination ensures tasks are matched with requisite skills. (The Functionalist Perspective on Education, 2020)

 

Another role of education is social innovation where students are able to come up with creative ways of solving social problems. This is possible by implementing idea formed through their schooling.

1. Latent Functions   

School plays an essential role in providing a platform for social interactions. Some students have met in school, develop a liking to each other, and end up in courtship.

     school also plays a vital role in the creation of social networks that could last for lifetimes. Networking with others may become part of an individual, even in workplaces after school.

      University education exposes students to social issues, which help them tolerate divergent views and participate in social and political activism.

References

Reading: Functionalist Theory on Education | Sociology. Courses.lumenlearning.com. (2020). Retrieved 5 August 2020, from https://courses.lumenlearning.com/alamo-sociology/chapter/reading-functionalist-theory-on-education/.

 

The Functionalist Perspective on Education. Revise Sociology. (2020). Retrieved 5 August 2020, from https://revisesociology.com/2015/01/26/functionalist-perspective-edu