6.2 Social class and educational attainment
Class & Education
Sociology Notes
A Level/AS Level/O Level
Your Burning Questions Answered!
How do sociological perspectives such as Marxism, Functionalism, and Interactionism explain the relationship between social class and educational attainment?
Discuss the different ways in which social class can influence a child's educational experiences, from early socialization to access to higher education.
Evaluate the evidence for and against the claim that educational attainment is determined by social class.
To what extent can government policies and initiatives address the inequalities in educational attainment linked to social class?
Examine the role of cultural capital in explaining the relationship between social class and educational attainment.
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6.2 Social Class and Educational Attainment: Class & Education
Introduction:
Have you ever noticed how some people seem to breeze through school while others struggle? It’s not always about intelligence. Sociologists believe that social class, a person’s position in society based on wealth, status, and power, plays a significant role in educational attainment (how well you do in school). This section will delve into how social class influences educational outcomes.
1. Material Deprivation:
⭐Definition: Lacking basic resources like adequate housing, nutritious food, and clothing. This can directly impact a student's ability to focus on their studies.
⭐Example: Imagine a student living in a cramped, noisy apartment with limited access to internet. They might struggle to concentrate on homework or complete online assignments.
2. Cultural Capital:
⭐Definition: The knowledge, skills, and values that give you an advantage in a particular social context. This is often acquired through family background, upbringing, and social interactions.
⭐Example: A student from a wealthy family might be exposed to art museums, travel, and intellectual discussions, giving them a head start in understanding and appreciating academic concepts.
3. Hidden Curriculum:
⭐Definition: Unwritten rules and expectations in school that favor students from certain socioeconomic backgrounds. These can include things like language, dress, and social behavior.
⭐Example: A student who is accustomed to formal language and sophisticated discussions might feel more comfortable participating in class than a student who comes from a working-class background where a different communication style is valued.
4. Labelling:
⭐Definition: Teachers' assumptions about students based on their social class background. These assumptions can influence how teachers interact with students and impact their expectations.
⭐Example: A teacher might unconsciously expect less from a student from a low-income neighborhood, leading to lower engagement and, ultimately, lower academic achievement.
5. Social Networks and Parental Involvement:
⭐Definition: The connections and support systems that students have access to. Parents' education level and involvement in their child's school life can significantly impact their educational outcomes.
⭐Example: A student whose parents are highly educated might have more access to resources, guidance, and mentorship, making them more likely to excel academically.
Conclusion:
Social class has a complex and often unseen impact on educational attainment. Material deprivation, cultural capital, hidden curriculum, labelling, and social networks all contribute to creating advantages and disadvantages for students from different socioeconomic backgrounds. It's crucial to recognize and address these issues to ensure educational opportunities are accessible and equitable for all.