Sociology of Education

Synopsis

SOC313 Sociology of Education will examine the relationships between education and society by reviewing a variety of theoretical perspectives and empirical studies. Topics include selected aspects of school organisation (tracking/streaming, class size, special education), social and cultural reproduction, the effect of social class on schooling outcomes, knowledge production, teaching as a profession, higher education, and globalisation and education.

Level: 3
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: Every January

Topics

Introduction to the sociology of education
Theoretical perspectives
Studying schools: research methods in context
The development and reform of the education system in Singapore
Selected effects of school organisation (1)
Selected effects of school organisation (2)
School stratification
Forms of capital and reproduction of inequalities
What is taught in schools?
Teaching as a profession
Higher education
Globalisation and education

Learning Outcome

Discuss the major sociological approaches to education
Analyse the relationship of education to other social institutions such as the family, government, religion, and the economy
Examine how students’ background characteristics shape their educational opportunities and outcomes
Apply course material to the analysis of educational policies, practices, and reform
Evaluate evidence bearing on the relation between facts and theoretical perspectives on education
Demonstrate communication skills in written and spoken expression

Part-time Programmes / CET Courses

Singapore University of Social Sciences

Sociology of Education