Module: EDU5104-20 Sociology of Education

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Thomas Morris

Module Tutor Contact Details: t.morris@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

We all have considerable experience of education, but how often do we question our beliefs about it? We probably believe in equality of opportunity for example, in education offering us a potential road to rewards and successes in later life, but:

• How confident are we that education delivers these things?

• How far do we as individuals determine what success or otherwise we have at school?

• To what extent are social structures and characteristics – such as social class or gender – important in shaping our path through education? And,

• Could education be little more than a way of keeping us ‘in our place’?

This module will examine the ways in which social forces influence educational processes and outcomes. It will ask who controls knowledge and what the purpose of education is. It will also look at the winners and losers in the education system, and at how education policy is influenced by particular interests and groups.

By the end of the module you should be able to express and defend an evidence-based view of how education is connected to, and influenced by, our wider society.

2. Outline syllabus:

The module is divided into three sections:

1. Introduction to the major theories and concepts in relation to the sociology of education, particularly consensus and conflict theories, and their implications for schools and classrooms. The question of power – and how power is wielded in relation to the education system – will also be addressed, as will issues of social justice and how these relate to education.

2. Key issues surrounding social class, social mobility, gender and ethnicity; these will be explored in detail using a key text in the sociology of education as a focussing lens.

3. Neoliberalism, the marketization of education, and recent developments in education policy.

3. Teaching and learning activities:

The pedagogy revolves around the concept of blended learning with the seminar, lecture and work on Minerva combining to provide the learning experience. Constantly asking questions is the touchstone for both lectures and seminars so that the students see themselves as part of a community of learners, working with the tutor to find answers to questions and suggest alternative forms of action.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Written Essay (2500 words)

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Group presentation with individual written summary

• % Weighting: 50%