Theoretical perspectives of education: Functionalist

Socialisation: Functionalist theory holds that one of the major roles of education is to socialise individuals into the shared norms and values of society.
Cultivating social solidarity: Through imparting a shared culture, education helps foster a sense of social unity or camaraderie (a notion put forth by Durkheim.
Preparing individuals for society: Education helps in preparing individuals for their future role in society. This is often referred to as teaching the skills necessary for the future workforce.

Meritocracy: Functionalists believe in a meritocratic education system, where rewards are based on individual achievement.
Role allocation: Another primary function of education, according to functionalists, is to allocate individuals to the most suitable job for their talents, using examinations and qualifications.

Emile Durkheim: Viewed education as a tool to maintain social order. Education serves to reinforce collective sentiments and ensure conformity and cooperation in society.
Talcott Parsons: He asserted that schools act as the “focal socialising agency” in modern society. Parsons also posited that education is a bridge between the family and wider society.

Ignoring inequality: Critics argue that functionalists tend to overlook the inequality in the education system and how it perpetuates class structure.
Excessive consensus: Functionalist perspective assumes an excessive degree of agreement or consensus about what is to be taught and learned. Critics say this is often not the case in today’s multicultural societies.