Functionalist Theory Of Education Essay

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Functionalist theory of education discusses the functions and dysfunctions of education. Schools functions include teaching students how to be a successful member of society and its purpose in society1. This is achieved by teaching skills, norms/values, and networking. The main goal of education is to have individuals be prepared to move from education to occupations. In Reading 5: “Social Reproduction” by David Swartz he discusses how similar power structures that are seen between workers and employers can also be seen between administrators and teachers, moving down to relationships between teachers and students. The demand for work is also similar in occupational field sand educational institutions2.
Social class structure is passed from one generation to the other, especially through education. Schools reflect the hierarchal structures seen in capitalist institutions and government in order to maintain their function in society1. Similar power structures that are seen among workers and employers can also be seen between administrators and teachers, moving down to relationships between teachers and students. The demand for work is also similar in occupational field sand educational institutions. Both provide consequences like …show more content…

Factors such as labeling, economics, and hidden curriculums affect all children in education in a variety of ways that can have lasting impacts on an individual’s life. It is important to look at individual’s experiences and overall scores in order to make education more efficient for everyone. In order for education to be functional we must constantly identify its dysfunctions. Education is what allows people to improve their lives and society, and has personally done so for me. To better our society and children’s lives we must place importance on public education and prepare all types of individuals to become functioning members of