theories of learning

Theories of Learning : Functionalism

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25 June 2009 In the field of sociology and other fields , functionalism is the most common and oldest theoretical perspective . The ideology behind this theory is based on two emphases - the use of analogy between a society and an individual and use of scientific methods in a social world that is objective . Thus , this theory is associated mostly with socio-cultural anthropology and sociology , and it is

credited to Emile Durkheim among other theorists . Hence , on the perspective of scientific world functionalists assert that social study of the world can take place as studying the physical world . They use techniques such as interviews and social surveys to better understand the social world . Moreover regulations , rules and values provide a means in which societies can appreciate and accomplish their responsibilities . The institutions that are found in the society e .g . religion , family and education helps to shape the social structure since they are made by roles that are interconnected . Nevertheless , according to Holmwood (2005 , there are concepts that revolve on this theory . These concepts are society is viewed as a system , functional requirements to ensure survivability of the society and phenomena . Most functionalist compare society as an organism in that the organism is made up of interdependent parts and systems that should work together to ensure that the entire body functions . Hence , through the same analogy , the society with different parts...