Sociology of Education (SOC313)

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.

• The growth of schooling in a global perspective
• Sociological theories on education
• Race, gender, class, and educational opportunity
• The influence of peer groups and parents in shaping education aspirations and success in Singapore
• Social and cultural reproduction in schools
• Differentiated curriculum and learning outcomes in Singapore
• Higher education and the labour market
• Elite education and the state apparatus
• Curricula, textbooks, and knowledge production
• Shifts in education strategy and globalisation
• Education change and reform
• The future of education

• 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