First read through the following sources, and then answer the assignment questions. Prescribed textbook (SoE): Chapters 1 to 2, and recommended readings Wrap-around guide for this module. Question 1 1.1 Discuss what is meant by “sociology”. (3) 1.2 Define the concept of education. (3) 1.3 Brief...
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Question 1
1.1. Discuss what is meant by “sociology”.
Sociology is the study of human social behavior, relationships, and institutions. It involves the
analysis of social factors such as ideas, feelings, and ways of behaving that persist over time and are
imposed upon all people who are born into a society. Sociology also involves the study of social
interactions amongst groups, organizations, societies, and the world. The field was established by
Western intellectuals such as Karl Marx, Herbert Spencer, Emile Durkheim, George Herbert Mead,
Max Weber, Talcott Parsons, and Alfred Schutz. The word 'sociology' is a combination of the Latin
word socius, meaning 'companion', and the Greek word logos, meaning 'the study of'. Thus,
sociology is the study of companionship or social relations. (Chapter 1 - Page 2)
1.2. Define the concept of education.
Education can be defined as the act or process of imparting or acquiring general knowledge,
developing the powers of reasoning and judgment, and preparing individuals intellectually for
mature life. It is not a static phenomenon, but a dynamic and ever-changing process. Education
serves as a form of socialization, and it is the means through which knowledge and learning skills are
acquired. The word 'education' has its origins in the Latin word educere, which means 'to bring out
that which is within'. It is particularly concerned with eliciting the human values that are latent in
every human being and must be drawn out. (Chapter 1 - Page 3)
1.3. Briefly explain the following terms:
A) Assimilation
The process by which a person or persons acquire the social and psychological characteristics of a
group. (Chapter 4 - Page 95)
B) Society
Humans in groups and the context in which people live and relate to one another. Societies can be
distinguished between pre-modern and modern societies. In the sociology of education course, we
focus on modern societies because the education system as we know it is a product of modern,
industrialised societies. (Chapter 4 - Page 101)
C) Ecology of a school
The school climate or school environment, which reflects the school's own personality and unique
character. (Chapter 4 - Page 96)
,1.4. One of the functions of the sociology of education is the activation of constructive and
creative forces. How could this aim be taught in the classroom?
The activation of constructive and creative forces is an important function of education. To achieve
this aim in the classroom, teachers can encourage students to think critically and creatively by
providing them with opportunities to engage in problem-solving activities, group discussions, and
project-based learning. Teachers can also incorporate art, music, and drama into their lessons to
stimulate students' creativity. Additionally, teachers can provide students with the freedom to express
their ideas and opinions, and encourage them to explore new ideas and perspectives. By doing so,
students can develop their critical thinking and creativity skills, which are essential for their personal
and professional growth.
According to Ballantine and Hammack (2012), education should achieve the following:
Ensure that learners are able to make a living by giving them adequate vocational education
Develop the mental and physical skills of learners (including motor, thinking, communication
and social skills.
Produce adaptable people who can cope with changes in their social environment
Create individuals who are able to make a contribution to the development of their society
Produce citizens who understand and appreciate democracy, and live according to its principles
Create people who make good use of leisure time
Teach students to adapt to change, prepare for change or initiate change in society
Develop individuals who are open to others by teaching them mutual understanding and the
value of peace
Promote knowledge of socially acceptable moral practices and ethical standards
Develop people who have an understanding of human relations and motivations.
(Chapter 1 - Page 5)
1.5. Discuss the proponents of conflict theory.
Conflict theory is a sociological perspective that views society as a system of groups that are in
constant conflict over resources.
The following are the propositions of the proponents of conflict theory:
Marx: There is competition for limited resources between the proletariat and the bourgeoisie.
Gumplowicz: Societies are made out of unequal systems that promote the relationships of
slave and master.
Weber: The capitalistic struggle for resources increases because the Protestant ethic
emphasizes that there is no gain without hard work.
Mills: There is conflict between the non-elite and the so-called power elite because of the
unequal distribution of resources.
Feminine conflict theory: Men cling to power, which makes it difficult for women.
Conflict theory has been criticized for its presumption that everything benefits the ruling class only.
The working class is portrayed as a group that is not aware of its subordination. When the ruling
class sets norms and values, the working class does not rebel against them. The theory does not
explain how the individual is affected, and critics object to the deterministic nature of this model.
(Chapter 1 - Page 18)
, Question 2
2.1. How does conflict theory view the role of families?
Conflict theory views families as playing a dominant role in maintaining patriarchy and social
inequality in society. Conflict theory argues that there are inequalities amongst the dominant group
and all of the other groups in every society. These inequalities are evident when we look at the
structures of wealth, power, and status in a society. These are the same structures that maintain the
social, economic, political, and coercive power of one group at the expense of others. In these
structures, the family works toward the continuance of social inequality within a society. The family
strives to maintain and reinforce the status quo through inheritance, education, and social capital.
Conflict theory has challenged the myth that families are harmonious. Although it recognizes the
inharmonious nature of the family, it does not ignore the fact that families have the ability to deal
with differences, change, and conflict. It asserts that conflict in families is normal, and the only thing
that must be done is to understand the family dynamics. (Chapter 1 - Page 14)
2.2. Briefly outline the role of the family as a social institution.
Family plays a vital role as a social institution. It is recognized as a micro unit of any social system
and remains at the center of social life. The family passes on generational traditions, provides family
members with a home, a sense of belonging, and emotional security. It also provides children as well
as other members of the family with norms, values, and emotional security. The family stabilizes
adult personalities and provides four vital functions for society: a sexual function, a reproductive
function, an economic function, and an educational function. The attitudes, behaviors, and
experiences of family members are formed by the social forces operating in the society in which they
live. (Chapter 1 - Page 11)
2.3. What are the principles of symbolic interactionism theory?
Symbolic interactionism is a sociological perspective that emphasizes the importance of symbols and
meanings in human interactions.
The following are the principles of symbolic interactionism theory:
Interactions: The meanings of things derive from the context of the interactions between
individuals.
Symbols: Social objects that give meaning to individuals are created, shared, and maintained
through social interaction.
Meanings: Human beings respond to things based on their subjective meanings. Meanings are
based on experience and occur through interactions between individuals. They are not fixed,
but are developed, modified, and negotiated in interaction situations.
Human beings have the capacity for thought, which is shaped by social interaction.
In social interaction, people learn the meanings and the symbols that allow them to exercise
their distinctively human capacity for thought.
Meanings and symbols allow people to carry on distinctively human action and interaction.
People are able to modify or alter the meanings and symbols on the basis of their interpretation
of the situation.
Symbolic interactionism theory emphasizes the importance of social interaction and the role of
symbols and meanings in shaping human behavior and society. (Chapter 1 - Page 21)
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