Material Factors in Class Differences in Achievement
Class differences in achievement aqa sociology are significantly influenced by material factors. This page explores three key material factors that contribute to these differences.
Diet
Working-class children are more likely to have poor diets due to poverty.
Highlight: Poor nutrition can lower a child's ability to learn, leading to lower academic achievement.
Housing Conditions
Poor housing conditions can have multiple negative effects on a child's education:
- Bad sleep due to uncomfortable living conditions
- Mould inhalation, which can affect health and cognitive function
- Crowded housing, which can lower concentration levels
These factors can worsen a child's ability to learn, potentially leading to lower achievement for working-class pupils.
Material Deprivation
Definition: Material deprivation refers to the inability to afford basic resources and services.
A lack of educational resources can make independent work more challenging for working-class students. This can result in less work being completed, contributing to underachievement.
The Correspondence Principle in Schools
The correspondence principle suggests that schools prepare students for their future roles in the workforce. Three ways this principle operates within schools are:
Hierarchy
Schools maintain a hierarchical structure where pupils must respect and obey teachers, mirroring the boss-employee relationship in the workplace.
Timetables
Example: Schools operate on strict timetables, with specific subjects taught at particular times, similar to work schedules in many jobs.
Setting and Streaming
The practice of setting and streaming in schools, where students can work hard to move up to higher sets, corresponds to the concept of working for promotions in the workplace.
Fairness in the Education System
The education system can be seen as fair to everyone in several ways:
Standardized Testing
All students are required to complete the same exams, which are regulated to ensure a level playing field for results.
Free Education
Highlight: The UK provides free education for all citizens under 19, ensuring that education is not exclusive to those who can afford it.
Meritocratic System
Educational achievement is measured by intelligence and effort, suggesting that the most educated individuals are the most successful based on merit.
Functions of the Education System for Society
The education system performs several crucial functions for society:
Secondary Socialization
Quote: Parsons argues that education "bridges people between childhood values and adult values."
Vocational Training
Education provides training to children, ensuring a future qualified workforce for society.
Role Allocation
The education system allocates roles through meritocratic means:
- High-achieving students typically progress to university and white-collar work
- Lower-achieving students often receive vocational training and enter blue-collar jobs
These functions highlight the significant role that education plays in shaping society and preparing individuals for their future roles.
