educational theories

p Functionalist curriculum is geared towards developing self-identity and esteem (Cliffnotes , n .d

Functionalists like Emile Durkheim , Talcott Parsons , and Robert Merton focused their studies on the contribution of each social unit to the continuation of the social system (Diligio , n .d

Finally , education , according to the functionalist , must contribute to the continuation of the social system (Danielson , 2007

The Conflict Theory

Whereas in functionalism the role is to ensure continuity of the system , in the conflict theory , the role of education is to maintain social imbalance and preserve the

strength of the dominant forces of society . Although it views education as an important contributor in establishing in society , conflict theorists maintain that the purpose of education is to teach lower class people how to obey those who have power (Cliffnotes , n .d

Rather than cooperating with the system , education is geared towards achievement of personal goals while taking advantage of other people The conflict theory promotes ultimate manipulation of everything based on wealth , money , and power (Cliffnotes , n .d

An example of a conflict theorist is Karl Marx . He believed that social conflict is the primary reason why society changes . In real life conflict theory can be applied to the struggle between the rich and poor (Diligio , n .d

Educational Theories 5

The conflict theory is best seen in schools ' preferences as far as ethnic origin is concerned . The most affluent schools usually prefer white students because they have the view that whites have more money compared to blacks or Hispanics (Danielson , 2007

The Interaction Theory

Interactionists theories are likewise known as micro-sociologists According to this theory , education can best be analyzed through direct observation of the events unfolding in the classroom . In this theory the expectation of the teacher has an important role in determining the performance , attitudes , and...