Sociology of Education 3DST 112 Unit 1 PDF

SOCIOLOGY OF EDUCATION 3DST 112 UNIT 1B  Key Elements of Functionalism in South Africa Social Stability and Integration Functionalist perspectives on education in South Africa examined how schools functioned to transmit culture, values, and social norms. A...

SOCIOLOGY OF EDUCATION 3DST 112 UNIT 1B  Key Elements of Functionalism in South Africa Social Stability and Integration Functionalist perspectives on education in South Africa examined how schools functioned to transmit culture, values, and social norms. As South Africa underwent rapid urbanization and industrialization, functionalist sociologists studied the effects on social cohesion and community structures.  Key Elements of Functionalism in South Africa CONT The theory's emphasis on stability often overlooked the conflicts and tensions resulting from apartheid policies. Emphasized the role of power, conflict, and inequality in shaping social structures and functions.  Contributions of Archie Mafeje as a functionalist scholar in South Africa Mafeje critically examined the colonial and apartheid structures that shaped South African society and education. He argued that these systems perpetuated inequality and social stratification, which were deeply embedded in the educational institutions. He claims that tribalism ideology and sentiment has to be reconceptualised in the post-independence period.  Contributions of Archie Mafeje as a functionalist scholar in South Africa – INTRODUCTION Mafeje says we have to make a distinction between someone who tries to preserve the traditional integrity, customs, and autonomy of their tribe He ordered to be careful of someone who invokes tribal ideology in order to maintain power, not in a rural but in an urban setting, and thereby undermines and exploits fellow African  Contributions of Archie Mafeje as a functionalist scholar in South Africa 1. Social Reproduction 2. Cultural Transmission 3. Role Allocation  1.Social Reproduction Mafeje emphasized how education systems in post- colonial Africa often reproduce existing social structures and inequalities. This aligns with functionalist views on how education serves to maintain societal stability, albeit with a critical lens on the perpetuation of inequities. A truly African education system could empower marginalized communities and foster socio-economic development.  2. Cultural Transmission Mafeje highlighted the role of education in transmitting cultural values and norms, essential for societal cohesion. However, he was critical of the colonial legacy in African education systems that often transmitted Western values at the expense of indigenous cultures.  3. Role Allocation According to functionalism, education sorts individuals into roles best suited to their talents and abilities. Mafeje's work critiques how this sorting process in South Africa was historically influenced by apartheid policies, leading to systemic racial and economic disparities.  4. Social Integration Functionalist theory posits that education fosters social integration by bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds. Mafeje noted that in South Africa, education had the potential to bridge social divides but often fell short due to lingering segregation and inequality. We need to address deep-rooted inequalities for true integration to occur.  5. Decolonisation of education There is a need for a more inclusive approach to ensure curriculum transformation. Mafeje's analysis sheds light on how the education system in South Africa perpetuated inequality through racially biased policies. Critique of Colonial Education: Mafeje critically examined the colonial foundations of African education systems, highlighting how they were designed to serve colonial interests rather than the needs of African societies  6. Reinstating indigenous knowledge He advocated for the inclusion of Indigenous knowledge systems within African education. Challenged the functionalist view that often prioritizes Western knowledge systems