Role and function in contemporary society

Functional Perspective

Education and socialisation: One of the key functions of education is the transmission of societal norms and values from generation to generation.
Preparing for adult roles: Education equips individuals with the vital skills and knowledge needed to fulfil adult roles and responsibilities in society.
Promoting social cohesion: Education fosters a sense of belonging, promoting unity and mutual understanding in a multicultural society.
Selection and Allocation: Education is seen as a meritocratic system that selects and allocates individuals into appropriate jobs based on their abilities.

Marxist Perspective

Reproduction of class inequality: Education is perceived as an instrument that reproduces class inequality by benefiting the rich and powerful while disadvantaging the poor.
Legitimising class inequality: Education serves to legitimise class inequality by portraying it as a result of individual failure rather than systematic bias.
Providing a compliant workforce: Through its hidden curriculum, education prepares individuals to accept authority and play their part in maintaining the capitalist system.

Feminist Perspective

Gender-role socialisation: Education contributes to the reinforcement of traditional gender roles through both the formal and hidden curriculum.
Instrument of patriarchal control: Education is viewed as a tool of patriarchal societies to maintain male dominance and female subordination.
Promoting gender equality: Education can also be seen as a vehicle to challenge and change traditional gender roles, thereby promoting gender equality.

Postmodernist Perspective

Individualisation and choice: In contemporary society, education has moved away from a one-size-fits-all approach, offering more choice and flexibility, thus reflecting the individualisation of society.
Fragmentation of knowledge: Education systems now offer a diverse range of knowledge, reflecting the fragmentation of culture in postmodern societies.
Education and social change: Education in postmodern societies is seen as a source of social change and innovation. It prepares individuals to engage in a rapidly changing world.