Wolmer’s Trust High School for Girls

Subject Outline

Department of Humanities
2022 – 2023

CAPE SOCIOLOGY

UNIT 1: THE SOCIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE

ABOUT CAPE SOCIOLOGY UNIT 1

“Sociology is the scientific study of social interactions, social institutions, social patterns and
social change of human society guided by sociological theories and methods” (CXC, 2014).

CAPE sociology unit 1 looks at the theoretical foundations of the discipline while exploring the
structure and dynamics of Caribbean society and culture. It also aims to influence the
development of the ideal Caribbean citizen; that is, “a Caribbean person who is emotionally
secure with a high level of self-confidence and self-esteem; who sees ethnic, religious and other
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diversity as a source of potential strength and richness; has informed respect for our cultural
heritage; values and displays the creative imagination in its various manifestations, and nurtures
its development in economic and entrepreneurial spheres in all other areas of life” (CXC, 2014).

AIMS OF THE COURSE

The syllabus aims to:
● equip you with the sociological concepts, theories/perspectives, and methods to better
understand human society;

● develop an awareness of the cultural heritage and identity of Caribbean people;

● develop an appreciation of family and kinship values, community cohesion, moral and social
responsibility, and commitment to the Caribbean;
● develop an understanding of Caribbean social issues; and

● develop an appreciation of the dynamics of Caribbean society, focusing on socio-cultural

continuity and change, diversity and similarity, consensus, and conflict
Syllabus - pages 1-2

SKILLS AND ABILITIES TO BE ASSESSED

● Knowledge and Understanding of concepts, sociological theories and perspectives and

principles of social research.
- Define
- Explain
- Describe
- Identify relevant evidence, sociological research

● Interpretation and Application of concepts, sociological theories and perspectives and

principles of social research.
- Make references from data, theory etc.
- Distinguish between facts and opinions and value judgments
- Use various methods of investigation
- Select and apply theories and perspectives to a Caribbean context
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● Analysis and Evaluation of concepts, sociological theories and perspectives and principles
of social research.
- Dissect and make sense of different forms of data
- Weigh the value of sociological and non-sociological evidence and arguments
- Recognise the limitations and biases in evidence
- Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of sociological perspectives; determine their
value/usefulness to understanding the Caribbean context
- Draw reasoned conclusions

Syllabus pages 2- 3

ASSESSMENT OF THE COURSE

Paper Description Contribution to Overall

Grade

EXTERNAL ASSESSMENT 80 per cent

Paper 01 This paper will consist of 30 per cent

forty-five multiple-choice
(1 hour 30 minutes) items, fifteen on each of the
three Modules in the Unit. All
items are compulsory.

Paper 02 This paper will consist of 50 per cent

three compulsory essay
(2 hours 30 minutes) questions, one from each
Module.

SCHOOL-BASED ASSESSMENT 20 per cent

SBA This is a research paper of

1300 - 1500 words based on 20 per cent
any of the topics in the
syllabus. The selected topic
should address a relevant
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social issue selected from any

of the three Modules in the
Unit.

SCHOOL BASED ASSESSMENT SCHEDULE

Sociology Unit 1

Draft Due Date

Introduction, Aims and Objectives, Theoretical October 28, 2022

Framework

Research Design, Questionnaire November 16, 2022

1st complete draft January 28, 2023

Final draft March 24, 2023

RECURRING ACTIVITIES

A wide range of activities will be used to facilitate learning for the term. These will all require
independent reading, research and preparation on the part of the learner as well as the teacher.

1. Lecture
2. Discussion
3. Note-making
4. Glossary
5. Entry and exit cards
6. Guided discovery
7. Quizzes

ASSIGNMENTS AND EVALUATION

Students will be given continuous assessments over this term. However, as a final assessment
(Progress Test), they will be given the following pieces of work:
❏ Classwork Essay
❏ Home Work Essay
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❏ SBA See the schedule above.

❏ Progress Test Online Test (essay)

READING MATERIAL
Ensure that you have at least one of the recommended texts on your booklist.

MAIN TOPICS AND OBJECTIVES

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
& Students should:
WEEKS

MODULE ONE

General Objectives

On completion of this module, students should:

1. understand the development of Sociology as a discipline;
2. understand the fundamental concepts in Sociology;
3. understand the main theoretical perspectives in Sociology;
4. understand the manifestations of culture in Caribbean society;
5. understand the key principles and practices of scientific research; and
6. demonstrate an awareness of ethical issues in research.

Week 2 Guiding Questions

▪ Begin to understand the nature
❏ What is sociology?
Introduction to and purpose of sociology as a ❏ What is sociology about?
CAPE sociology discipline ❏ What are the standards that guide
Unit 1 sociological research and theory?
Topics
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SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
& Students should:
WEEKS

❏ Why study sociology? How will

studying sociology help me to be a
▪ Sociology as an academic
better student? How will studying
discipline sociology help me with my career?
▪ The sociological perspective
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
▪ The sociological imagination

▪ Sociology as a social science ▪ Sociology is the study of the extent

to which we are constrained by living
in the social world. The study of
sociology is fundamentally about
how others influence (or constrain)
us.
▪ Sociology is not just about groups, or
even individuals, but about
unearthing how we relate and
interrelate.
▪ We relate to others through social
contexts – groups, institutions,
history, the future, norms, values,
organisations and structures.
▪ The sociological perspective, while
having commonalities with the
economic or the historic, represents
the unique point of view of
sociology.
▪ To study sociology meaningfully you
have to develop your sociological
imagination.
▪ Actively engaging in sociological
thinking helps you to be more critical
and analytical about the social world.

Activities
● Discussion
● Reflection
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SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
& Students should:
WEEKS

Week 2 ❏ discuss the fundamental concepts Guiding Questions

Fundamental of Sociology
Concepts in ❏ correctly define and use
Sociology – key concepts in sociology
Society and ❏ identify the characteristics
Culture of culture and society;
❏ differentiate between the
concepts of society and
culture;
❏ describe the relationship
between society and
culture;
❏ explain the relationship
between the individual and
society;
❏ assess different
explanations (theoretical
perspectives) on how
society works
Topics
Society – structure, function, power
❏ social institutions
❏ social organisations
❏ social order
❏ social change
❏ social inequality
Culture
❏ elements of culture (norms, values,
beliefs, symbols, material culture,
sanctions)
❏ characteristics of culture
1. How are society and culture related?
2. How do I influence my society? How
does my society influence who I am?
3. Which came first; society or culture?
4. What makes our society distinct from
all other societies?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
1. We relate to others through social
contexts – groups, institutions,
history, the future, norms, values,
organisations and structures.
2. Whilst we may try to separate out the
meanings of society and culture for
purposes of study, in reality they are
tightly inter-woven.
3. Social order is maintained through
social structures which are actively
constructed by culture.
4. Culture as a lived reality is almost
impossible to describe or explain in
its entirety.
5. To study the phenomenon of culture
theorists created basic concepts about
it and divided it into ‘characteristics’
and ‘elements’.
6. Through a study of culture we can
become aware of continuity and
change in the society.

Activities
● Diagrams – to show the structure of
society
● Short essay/story – the relationship
between the individual and the
society

Essays
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SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
& Students should:
WEEKS

1. Culture shapes the identity of the individual through the agents of socialization. Discuss how
culture shapes the identity of the individual with reference to TWO agents of socialisation.
[2011, 25 marks]
2. Using relevant examples to explain the term ‘culture’, outline and critically assess the impact of
globalization on Caribbean culture. [2015]

Week 3 ❏ discuss the fundamental concepts Guiding Questions

of Sociology 1. Which set of factors best explain my
Concepts in ❏ outline the process of personality and identity; nature or
Sociology – socialisation in terms of nurture?
Socialisation types, stages and theories 2. How have the social groups that I belong
and Social to influence my personality and
Groups Social Groups behaviour?
3. What happens to the individual when
▪ primary and secondary
there is no social group?
▪ in-group, out-group 4. Can the family be effectively
replaced/substituted as an agent of
Socialisation socialisation?
▪ types of socialisation
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
▪ agents of socialisation (peer Guiding Questions
group, mass media, school,
family ▪ Sociology is not just about groups, or
even individuals, but about
unearthing how we relate and
interrelate.

Essays
1. Assess the claim made by some sociologists that human behaviour results from socialisation.
[2006, 25 marks]
2. Culture shapes the identity of the individual through the agents of socialization. Discuss how
culture shapes the identity of the individual with reference to TWO agents of socialisation.
[2011, 25 marks]
3. Discuss the extent to which socialisation contributes to the maintenance of social order in
Caribbean society. Support your response with reference to TWO agents of socialisation and

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS
& Students should:
WEEKS
TWO ways in which EACH of the selected agents has contributed to the maintenance of social
order in the Caribbean society.
Week 4 & 5 ❏ evaluate the theoretical
perspectives of Sociology
Theoretical ❏ identify and use key terms
Perspectives in associated with the major
Sociology sociological perspectives;
❏ Summarise the main
theoretical explanations of
how society works;
❏ Explain the similarities and
differences between the
major theoretical
perspectives on how
society works;
❏ Use examples from the
Caribbean to assess the
usefulness of the major
theoretical explanations of
how society works
❏ Assess the relative
importance of micro and
macro perspectives on
society
❏ Describe the impact of
mainstream sociological
perspectives on
sociological theorising in
the Caribbean
Topics
▪ Theories, paradigms,
▪ Consensus/Functionalist
▪ Conflict/Marxist
▪ Interactionist
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GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
[2012, 25 marks]
Guiding Questions
1. How do societies cohere and
maintain order? How does the
Jamaican society maintain social
order?
2. How do societies change? How has
the Jamaican society changed since
the encounter period?
3. What is my preferred sociological
perspective on how society works?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
1. Each sociological perspective
represents a different lens or way of
understanding social phenomena, and
so sociology is characterised by
competing views of society or
different sociologies.
2. The different sociological
perspectives or theoretical positions
add to the critical element of
sociology because they emphasise
that there is no one way of
understanding the social world.
3. The basic principles of sociology are
also known as principles of
constraint which operate in all
societies.
4. The six principles of constraint are
institutions, socialisation,
stratification, organisation, social
control and social change.
5. Typical introductions to the study of
society do not make clear that
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SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
& Students should:
WEEKS

sociology is the study of the extent to

▪ Feminist
which we are constrained by living in
the social world.
6. The study of sociology is
fundamentally about how others
influence (or constrain) us.
7. These principles represent the
conceptual knowledge base of the
discipline.
8. The principles give rise to the
specific theories, perspectives and
concepts of the discipline of
sociology.
9. Another way of understanding these
principles is to think of them as the
rules of relationships in the social
world.

Social order, social control, social change,

Activities
▪ Speech - apply theories to understand
and treat select social issues
▪ Diagrams, comic strips - major
theoretical concepts
▪ Tables - evaluation of theoretical
perspectives
▪ Essay

▪ Discussion

▪ puzzles

Essays
1. “Functionalist views of social order are relevant to the Caribbean since order has been created
through conformity and consensus.” Discuss this statement with reference to ONE Caribbean
society. [2003, 25 marks]
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SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
& Students should:
WEEKS

2. According to Marxism, culture is shaped by the economy and serves to reinforce the dominance
of the ruling class in society. Discuss this statement with reference to the Caribbean.
[2003, 25 marks]
3. Discuss the similarities and differences between Conflict/Marxist theories and Functionalist
theories in sociology. [2004, 25 marks]
1. “Functionalism is inappropriate for the analysis of Caribbean society.” Discuss.
Giddens (2006) defines sociology as "the study of human social
life, groups and society" and outlines the development of the discipline as a response to changes
occurring within European society. Discuss THREE of these changes that led to the origin of
sociology and comment on at least ONE factor that gave rise to the discipline within the
Caribbean. [2016]
2. The feminist perspective argues that classical sociological theories have failed to address gender
inequalities by solely examining and presenting a patriarchal perspective on society. Outline and
explain THREE feminist critiques levelled at the discipline and account for ONE contribution
made by modern feminism to the study of sociology. [2016]
3. The feminist perspective argues that since its origin Sociology has highlighted the male view
point while neglecting to incorporate the opinions and experiences of the female population.
[2014]
4. Giddens (2006) defines sociology as "the study of human social life, groups and society" and
outlines the development of the discipline as a response to changes occurring within European
society. Discuss THREE of these changes that led to the origin of sociology and comment on at
least ONE factor that gave rise to the discipline within the Caribbean. [2016]
4. [2005, 25 marks]
5. With reference to the assumptions of functionalist and Interactionist theories, present an argument
either supporting or opposing the view that both of these theoretical perspectives are necessary
for a proper understanding of Caribbean society. [2007, 25 marks]
6. Compare and contrast the relevance of consensus and conflict theory in understanding the
maintenance of social order and the nature of social change in Caribbean society. [2019]

Week 6 ❏ distinguish among the various Guiding Questions

research methods; 1. How are theories formed?
Research ❏ apply the research methods to 2. How can a sociologist study a subject
Methods a sociological issue that is as complex as society/social
groups? How does a sociologist
achieve reliability, validity and
Topics objectivity?
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SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
& Students should:
WEEKS

3. To what extent can sociological

▪ Positivism and interpretivism.
▪ Quantitative, qualitative and
triangulation.
▪ Surveys and sampling
methods.
▪ Document studies.
research be trusted?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
▪ There are different approaches to
research and some may be more
dominant than others.

▪ Observation (participant and ▪ Data collection procedures and

non-participant). instruments will vary according to
the research approach you adopt.
▪ Cross-sectional and
longitudinal studies: Activities

❏ Research Consultancy - evaluate the

utility of research techniques and
plan a research project
❏ Create and administer an online
questionnaire
❏ Analyse data from an online
questionnaire.
❏ Create and use a checklist to evaluate
primary and secondary sources of
information

Essays
1. Assess the strengths and limitations of the different kinds of qualitative research techniques used
in sociology. [2006, 25 marks]
2. Assess the extent to which a longitudinal approach is useful for the study of either HIV/AIDS or
teenage pregnancy in the Caribbean. [2009, 25 marks]
3. Some researchers argue that secondary data should be used with caution because such data have
been collected for purposes other than the intended use and may lead to flawed interpretations and
research conclusions. To what extent do you agree with this view? Support your response by
referring to TWO sources of secondary data used by quantitative and qualitative researchers and
the implications for validity and reliability associated with their use. [2010, 25 marks]
4. You have been asked to conduct research on the reasons for the increasing involvement of youths
in serious crimes in a named Caribbean society. You have to make a decision on whether to use a
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SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
& Students should:
WEEKS

quantitative or qualitative approach to your research. Discuss TWO advantages and TWO
disadvantages of the approach you have selected. [2011, 25 marks]
5. You are asked to conduct research on domestic violence in the common-law family unit. a)
Description and justification of research design b) Ethical issues that should be taken into
consideration when conducting the research [2014]
6. Using at least ONE example of each type, compare the use of qualitative and quantitative
research methods in sociological research. [2018]
7. You are required to conduct a study on variations in examination performance in CAPE sociology
at secondary schools in your society. Discuss the data collection methodology you would use in
conducting this study, that is, whether you will use a quantitative (for example, questionnaires) or
qualitative (for example, unstructured interviews) approach. Also, examine the importance of
observing ethical issues such as informed consent, anonymity or confidentiality in your study.
[2022]

Midterm Break

Week 8 Guiding Questions

▪ explain the principles and
Principles of
Scientific practices of scientific research
Research
▪ Apply the ethical principles in
research
o identify the major
ethical issues in social
research
o assess the usefulness of
various solutions to
ethical dilemmas that
may occur in social
research
o appreciate the
importance of applying
ethical principles in
social research
1. How can a researcher minimize the
risks associated with social research?
2. When does a researcher decide that
the risks are too great to continue
with a research project?
3. How possible is ethical research in
the social sciences?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
▪ Scientific research is methodical,
systematic and rigorous.
▪ What is considered ‘scientific’ is
underlain by certain assumptions
about knowledge.
▪ At all stages of the research process
the researcher must adhere to the
highest ethical standards.
▪ You need to master many terms and
concepts as the field of research is
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SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
& Students should:
WEEKS

Topics precise and requires that you know

and can use the language
▪ Scientific research
appropriately.
o ethical
o valid ▪ The research process describes a
o reliable systematic way of planning and
o objective carrying out your research.

▪ Ethical issues in research ▪ Data analysis is conducted

differently in different research
approaches or traditions.

Activities
❏ Game (Opinion, Truth or Fact) -
identify and critique different sources
of information
❏ Review existing research reports -
determine the elements of social
research
❏ Case studies
❏ Mock court- identify and treat with
breaches of ethical codes
❏ Website - promote ethical social
research

Essays
1. You are asked to conduct research on domestic violence in the common-law family unit. a)
Description and justification of research design b) Ethical issues that should be taken into
consideration when conducting the research [2014]
2. The primary responsibility of sociologists is to protect the welfare of the human subjects that
participate in his or her research. Informed consent and confidentiality are two of the ethical
issues associated with the study of human social behaviour. Assess the importance of EACH of
these ethical issues to a study of the drug trade in the Caribbean. [2015]
3. You are required to conduct a study on variations in examination performance in CAPE sociology
at secondary schools in your society. Discuss the data collection methodology you would use in
conducting this study, that is, whether you will use a quantitative (for example, questionnaires) or
qualitative (for example, unstructured interviews) approach. Also, examine the importance of
observing ethical issues such as informed consent, anonymity or confidentiality in your study.
[2022]

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS
& Students should:
WEEKS
Week 8 ❏ discuss issues related to
cultural diversity and popular
Caribbean culture
Culture and the ❏ through discussion and with
Social Order the aid of examples,
differentiate between the
different types of culture;
❏ with the aid of diagrams,
outline the major models of
Caribbean society and culture;
❏ appreciate causes and
consequences of cultural
diversity in the Caribbean;
❏ assess the usefulness of each
model of Caribbean society
and culture in understanding
Caribbean cultural diversity
and social stratification;
❏ trace the origin and
development of popular art
forms in the Caribbean;
❏ assess the contributions of
popular culture to the
development of Caribbean
culture, identity, and society;
❏ appreciate the importance of
globalisation as a factor
shaping Caribbean culture and
identity
Topics
❏ Caribbean socio-cultural
diversity
❏ Models of Caribbean society
and culture
❏ Caribbean popular culture
14
GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
Guiding Questions
1. What factor(s) best explain the
nature and impact of cultural
diversity in the Caribbean?
2. What theoretical model or set of
ideas best explains the dynamics of
Caribbean culture and social order?
3. How has globalization influenced the
evolution of Caribbean culture?
4. How is your ethnic identity
represented in Caribbean arts and
popular culture in the 21st century?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
▪ Culture as a lived reality is almost
impossible to describe or explain in
its entirety.
▪ To study the phenomenon of culture
theorists created basic concepts about
it and divided it into ‘characteristics’
and ‘elements’.
▪ The sociological perspectives each
give a different understanding of
culture and we may be socialised into
the view of just one perspective.
▪ Through a study of culture we can
become aware of continuity and
change in the society.
▪ Through the forms of popular culture
– music, dance, art, theatre (and folk
culture) – culture becomes accessible
to study.
▪ The Caribbean is characterised by
socio-cultural diversity.
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SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
& Students should:
WEEKS

Activities

❏ Website - nature and meaning of

Caribbean popular culture
❏ Table completion - evaluate theories
of culture
❏ Short essay
❏ Presentations

Essays
1. Discuss how historical factors have influenced the development of Caribbean culture.
[2005, 25 marks]
2. Assess the extent to which the creole society approach is relevant to an understanding of any
TWO elements of culture in Caribbean society. Support your answer with reference to
acculturation and interculturation in a named Caribbean society. [2009, 25 marks]
3. Assess the extent to which any TWO characteristics of culture in Caribbean societies can be
described as having evolved (changed) in the contemporary period. Reference should be made to
the effects of the plantation legacy and the impact of globalization in the contemporary period in a
named Caribbean society. [2010, 25 marks]

Week 9 ❏ trace the development of Guiding Questions

Sociology from the classical to 1. In what ways did the major
Origins and the contemporary period in revolutions in 18th and 19th century
Development of mainstream and Caribbean Europe explain the nature and
sociology Sociology purpose of sociology?
2. Why did Max Weber arrive at a
❏ Use a timeline to: different theoretical perspective than
o trace the origin and the other founding fathers of
development of sociology?
sociology in Europe, 3. What is the role of feminism in the
America and the origin and development of
Caribbean; sociology?
o identify the main 4. In what ways is the development of
contributors to the sociology in the Caribbean different
development of from the development of sociology
sociology in Europe, in Europe?
America, and the
Caribbean; Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
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SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
& Students should:
WEEKS

o categorise key
▪ Accounts of the origins and
contributors to the
development of development of sociology tend to
sociology – classical, have a Eurocentric bias.
founding fathers, ▪ Sociology as a discipline is
contemporary;
continuing to develop and so today
o identify the major
many branches or subdivisions occur
events that influenced within each of the major sociological
the origin and perspectives.
development of
sociology in Europe ▪ The sociological study of Caribbean
and the Caribbean; societies owes much to our own
- describe the major schools of indigenous theorists and those
thought that emerged in sociology; debates have enriched sociological
- explain how major events theorising in the wider world.
influenced the origin and
▪ Colour, class, race, ethnicity, and
development of sociology as a
discipline education among other factors are
deeply embedded in the study of
sociological issues in the Caribbean.
▪ Students of Caribbean sociology
must also appreciate Caribbean
history which provides links to the
present context(s).
▪ Sociology as it evolved in the
Caribbean was very much an
inter-disciplinary area of inquiry,
integrating insights especially from
anthropology, political economy,
economics and history.

Activities

❏ Timeline -the evolution of sociology

❏ Founder profile - contributions of
sociologists
❏ Matching (match achievements to
each sociologist)
❏ Create theories - show understanding
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SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
& Students should:
WEEKS

of the link between theoretical ideas

and socio-economic contexts

Essays

1. Giddens (2006) defines sociology as "the study of human social life, groups and society" and
outlines the development of the discipline as 5432S.a response to changes occurring within
European society. Discuss THREE of these changes that led to the origin of sociology and
comment on at least ONE factor that gave rise to the discipline within the Caribbean. [2016]

2. The feminist perspective argues that classical sociological theories have failed to address gender
inequalities by solely examining and presenting a patriarchal perspective on society. Outline
and explain THREE feminist critiques levelled at the discipline and account for ONE contribution
made by modern feminism to the study of sociology. [2016]

Week 9 ❏ explain the principles and Guiding Questions

practices of scientific research 1. What does it take for an academic
Sociology as a discipline to be scientific?
Science 2. Is sociology a science?

Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)

▪ The idea of sociology as a science
began with the origins of the
discipline and continues today
especially in the dominant
sociological perspectives.

Activities

❏ Essay
❏ Peer review

Essays

1. Within the Social Sciences, there is a debate about whether sociology is a science or not. Evaluate
the major positions in this debate. [2004, 25 marks]
2. “Sociology cannot be a science because its subject matter is too varied, abstract and difficult to
 18

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
TOPICS GUIDING QUESTIONS & ACTIVITIES
& Students should:
WEEKS

measure.” Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Support your response by referring to
the characteristics of the discipline of sociology as well as nature of human social behaviour.
[2007, 25 marks]
3. Critics of sociology have challenged the view that sociology is a science. Discuss TWO of the
MAIN criticisms of sociology as a science. Support your response with reference to ONE named
sociological study of society. [2012, 25 marks]

4. Discuss the arguments in support of Sociology as a science that allows human behaviour to be
quantified and measured objectively. Refer to at least ONE named sociological study to support
your response. 2017

School-Based ❏ Identify a suitable research problem

Assessment / ❏ Develop the statement of the problem, background to the research and identify
Social Research its aims and objectives.
 19

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

TOPICS ACTIVITIES
&WEEKS Students should:

MODULE THREE

Module Objectives
On completion of this portion of the module, students should:
1. understand social stratification;
2. understand the theoretical perspectives on social stratification;
3. appreciate the development and impact of social stratification in the Caribbean.

Week 10 Understand social Stratification Guiding Questions

1. What is my position in my
Concepts of ❏ explain the concepts associated with society’s social stratification
Stratification in stratification; system?
a Comparative ❏ identify types of stratification 2. To what extent is your society
Perspective systems; meritocratic?
❏ Given scenarios, group 3. What factors influence the
Types of persons into social strata in likelihood that I will achieve
Stratification given stratification systems upward social mobility in my
Systems society?
Topics
Key Terms
❏ Class Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
❏ Colour
❏ Race ▪ Social stratification varies within
❏ Ethnicity each society and over time.
❏ Caste
▪ There are concepts associated with
❏ Gender
❏ Status (ascribed and achieved). the study of social stratification
❏ Mobility (horizontal, vertical, which must be mastered to be able to
intergenerational, intragenerational) discuss past and current issues.
▪ There are different types of
stratification systems.

Activities
❏ Puzzle
❏ Matching
❏ Movie

Essays
1. Using at least ONE example of each, distinguish between open and closed stratification systems.
 20

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

TOPICS ACTIVITIES
&WEEKS Students should:

Is it correct to say that these are ideal types and do not exist in reality? Explain your response
with reference to Caribbean society. [2018]
2. Evaluate the relative importance of any TWO determinants of social stratification in the
Caribbean. [2003, 25 marks]
3. Ethnicity focuses on a social group’s connection to a shared past and culture, while race focuses
on physical differences among social groups. Evaluate this statement with reference to ONE
relevant study of Caribbean society. [2012, 25 marks]
4. Colour, ethnicity and gender are MAJOR factors that have influenced the stratification system in
Caribbean societies. Examine TWO of the MAJOR factor mentioned above as they relate to the
stratification system in a named Caribbean society. [2011, 25 marks]
5. Some sociologists suggest that gender, class and ethnicity interact and contribute to social
inequality in society. Assess the relevance of gender, class and ethnicity to an understanding of
social stratification in the Caribbean. [2017]
6. Some sociologists suggest that gender, class and ethnicity interact and contribute to social
inequality in society. Assess the relevance of gender, class and ethnicity to an understanding of
social stratification in the Caribbean. [2017]
7. Assess the extent to which Caribbean societies may be described as meritocratic. Support your
response with reference to the changing educational and employment opportunities in the
Caribbean. [2007, 25 marks]
8. "A salient characteristic of the contemporary Caribbean is that social status is based upon
achievement." Critically evaluate this statement by examining the relationship among race,
gender and social mobility. [2016]
9. Discuss the major factors that have influenced patterns of social mobility in any named
Caribbean society. [2005, 25 marks]
 21

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

TOPICS ACTIVITIES
&WEEKS Students should:

❏ Discuss the evolution of Caribbean Guiding Questions

Week 10 – 11 social stratification from slavery to
Evolution of present day;
Caribbean ❏ trace the evolution of
Stratification Caribbean education systems
from the period of early
colonisation to the present
❏ explain how key factors
including industrialisation,
globalisation, and
independence have affected
Caribbean education systems
1. In what ways and how
significantly has Caribbean social
stratification changed over time?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
▪ The study of social stratification in
the Caribbean normally begins with
the period of slavery and extends
through Emancipation and
independence to the present.

Topics
Evolution of Caribbean Stratification Activities
❏ Plantation Society (ascribed status,
closed system). ❏ Essay
❏ (b) Post-Emancipation (very limited ❏ Timeline
mobility).
❏ (c) Post-World War II (beginning of
achieved status).
❏ (d) Post-Independence (achieved
status, open system).

Essays
2. During slavery and colonialism, status in Caribbean society was largely ascribed. Explain why
status determination is based on achievement and less on ascription in contemporary Caribbean
society. [2004, 25 marks]
3. The education system contributes to the development of a meritocratic society in
post-independent Caribbean societies. Discuss this statement with reference to a named
Caribbean society. Support your response by referring to THREE factors in the Caribbean society
which have promoted or affected the development of the meritocratic society. [2009, 25 marks]
4. One of the defining features of modern societies is social equality among their members.”
Provide arguments for or against this statement. [2006, 25 marks]
5. In contemporary society, women enjoy equal opportunity for upward social mobility. Discuss this
statement with reference to a named Caribbean society. Support your response by referring to
THREE factors that have promoted or affected equal opportunity for Caribbean women.
[2009, 25 marks]
 22

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

TOPICS ACTIVITIES
&WEEKS Students should:

6. Account for the substantial upward mobility of women and the growing marginalisation of men
in the Caribbean. [2003, 25 marks]
7. Discuss the major factors that have influenced patterns of social mobility in any named
Caribbean society. [2005, 25 marks]
8. Discuss the changes in the system of stratification in a named Caribbean country after World War
II. [2005, 25 marks]
9. Discuss the changes that occurred in the pattern of social mobility over the past fifty years in a
named Caribbean Society [2014]

10. Discuss changes in the system of social stratification since independence in a named Caribbean
society that have influenced the structure and function of political parties. In your discussion, you
may focus on issues such as class or race and ethnicity. [2015]

11. Discuss the proposition that increases in educational opportunities and economic development
have led to upward social mobility and the growth of the middle class in the Caribbean. [2022]

Week 11 ❏ assess theoretical perspectives on Guiding Questions

stratification in the Caribbean
Theoretical ❏ outline the major sociological
Perspectives on perspectives on social
Social stratification
stratification
❏ assess the suitability of
mainstream perspectives as
explanations for social
stratification in the Caribbean
❏ compare and contrast the
models of Caribbean society
and culture to the mainstream
perspectives on social
stratification
1. What theoretical perspective /
combination of theoretical ideas
best explain Caribbean social
stratification?
2. In what ways (if any) do
Caribbean perspectives improve
our understanding of Caribbean
stratification?
3. To what extent is Caribbean
stratification functional and
indispensable?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
▪ Theoretical or sociological
perspectives explain social
stratification differently using
competing ideas about society.
▪ Caribbean theorists have challenged
mainstream theorising about social
stratification and have contributed
 23

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

TOPICS ACTIVITIES
&WEEKS Students should:

their own indigenous theorising on

this issue.

Activities

❏ Discussion
❏ Essay, Debate
❏ Diagram
❏ Case study

Essays
1. Explain the difficulties that may arise in the use of either the functionalist or conflict theory in
the analysis of class in a named Caribbean society. In your explanation, you may focus on issues
such as class, class boundaries, class membership and the emergence of new classes. [ 2007,
25 marks]
2. Discuss the relevance of ONE sociological explanation of class and gender to an understanding
of social mobility in the Caribbean. Support your response with reference to relevant studies
which may be applicable to a named Caribbean society. [2010, 25 marks]
3. Evaluate the relevance of EITHER the functionalist OR conflict perspective to an understanding
of social mobility in contemporary Caribbean society. Refer to ONE sociological study to
support your response. [2012, 25 marks]
4. Compare and contrast the functionalist and conflict perspectives on social stratification.
[2014]
5. Examine the extent to which the views of Karl Marx and Max Weber on social class are relevant
to contemporary Caribbean society. Support your response with reference to relevant studies of
social class in a named Caribbean society. [2010, 25 marks]
6. With reference to EITHER the conflict OR interactionist perspectives, discuss the functionalist
view that stratification is a universal system that benefits society. [2015]

7. Compare the theoretical perspectives of functionalism and Marxism on social stratification.

Outline and explain one major criticism of each perspective. [2016]

Week 11 Guiding Questions

▪ analyse the impact of stratification
1. To what extent is Caribbean
systems on Caribbean societies stratification functional or
Impact of ❏ Evaluate the contributions of beneficial to the society?
Stratification social stratification systems to
 24

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

TOPICS ACTIVITIES
&WEEKS Students should:

system on Caribbean society and culture

Caribbean and the consequent
Societies applicability of perspectives
on social stratification
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
1. Systems of social stratification in the
Caribbean have had considerable
impact on social, economic and
political life.

Activities

1. Essay
2. Case study

Essays
1. Evaluate the view that, without social stratification and social mobility, society would collapse.
Provide examples or illustrations from the Caribbean to support your answer. [2004, 25
marks]

2. Analyse the influence of social class on stratification in the Caribbean today. [2006, 25 marks]

End of Term/Mock Examinations

 25

TOPIC & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

WEEKS ACTIVITIES
Students should:

MODULE TWO
Module Objectives
On completion of this portion of the module, students should:
1. understand selected core social institutions from mainstream and Caribbean perspectives;
2. appreciate the development and dynamics of selected Caribbean social institutions.

Introduction to Guiding Questions

Social
▪ Recall the perspective of society as a
Institutions
system of structures that include social
institutions and social organisations
▪ Recall and apply theoretical
perspectives on how society works to
the concept of social institutions
▪ Describe how the region’s history and
global interactions result in common
characteristics across its major societal
institutions
Topics
Key Terms
▪ structure
▪ social institutions
▪ social organisations
1. What are social institutions?
2. Why are social institutions
important?
3. What common factors shape
Caribbean social institutions?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
A social institution in sociology is one
of its most fundamental concepts
because it is through social institutions
that sociology seeks to organise society
for us to study. Social institutions are
not tangible entities, but ideas we all
buy into to make sense of society. For
example, ‘the family’ does not refer
just to people who live in different
families but to the ideas, values and
beliefs in the society that influence the
family. The same applies to religion
and education.

Activities
Theoretical Perspectives – How society 1. Discussion
works (recap)
2. Diagram
▪ Structural functionalist perspective

▪ Marxist perspective

▪ Symbolic interactionist Perspective

▪ Feminist Perspective
 26

TOPIC & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

WEEKS ACTIVITIES
Students should:

Major Factors in the Evolution of

Caribbean Social Institutions
▪ Evolution of Caribbean society and
culture
o Plantation Society
o Post-Emancipation
o Post-World War II
o Post-Independence

Colonisation, Indentureship Slavery, total

institution Industrialisation, Migration,
Independence, Colonial Agenda,
eurocentrism, manifest functions, latent
functions

FAMILY

▪ Explain the characteristics, functions
Family types in
the Caribbean and transformations of social
institutions in the Caribbean
Changing
patterns / o using puzzles and discussion, use
Evolution of defining characteristics to
family in the differentiate between the different
Caribbean family structures and conjugal
unions found in the Caribbean
o through examining case studies
and the use of drama, story
writing and creating
posters/brochures/charts/videos/P
PT,
o trace changing patterns in
the Caribbean family (rates
of marriage and divorce,
nature of fatherhood and
motherhood
o explain the influence of
factors such as slavery,
indentureship, emancipation,
Guiding Questions
1. What are the typical
characteristics of families in the
Caribbean?
2. Is matrifocality still the norm
among Afro-Caribbean
families?
3. Is patriarchy still the norm
among Indo-Caribbean
families?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
▪ The family is a core social
institution in all societies forming
the ‘base’ of the social system.
▪ Although ideas about family vary
widely, sociologists recognise that
in all societies now and in the past,
certain relationships were put in
place to take care of the basic needs
of the unborn, of children and
 27

TOPIC & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

WEEKS ACTIVITIES
Students should:

migration, education, adults, thereby assuring the

industrialisation, and continuity of the society.
globalisation on the
▪ The family is very diverse in the
changing nature of family in
the Caribbean Caribbean so much so that theorists
are still locked in disagreement
Topics over the variety of ethnic family
types and family practices.
▪ Nuclear, single parent, extended,
▪ The family is subject to continuity
joint, matrifocal, reconstituted
and change such as the changing
▪ Changing Caribbean kinship patterns roles of men and women.
(rates of marriage and divorce, men
▪ The family is the site where gender
and fatherhood, female-headed
households, single-parent households) socialisation first develops resulting
in gender roles, identities, and
▪ The impact of slavery, indentureship, ideologies that influence family life
industrialisation, migration and and wider social interaction;
contemporary factors
Activities

Essays
1. Discuss the MAJOR determinants of THREE family forms found in the Caribbean. [2004, 25
marks]
2. Discuss the extent to which there is a ‘fit’ between the matrifocal family and Caribbean society as
a whole? [2003, 25 marks]
3. Some sociologists argue that the matrifocal family is typical of Caribbean societies. To what extent
do you support this argument? In your answer you should refer to a named Caribbean society.
[2006, 25 marks]
4. The single-parent family is an accepted reality in the Caribbean. Do you agree with this statement?
Discuss THREE relevant social factors to support your position. [2011, 25 marks]
5. Outline historical and contemporary factors that have contributed to diversity in Caribbean family
patterns. Support your response with reference to relevant literature on the Caribbean family.
[2018]

Theoretical Guiding Questions

▪ Evaluate the main theoretical
perspectives on 1. What are the core functions of
the Family perspectives commonly used for the the family?
analysis of social institutions in the 2. How does the institution of the
 28

TOPIC & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

WEEKS ACTIVITIES
Students should:

Caribbean family help to maintain the

o outline the main tenets of the
theoretical explanations of the
nature and function of the
family;
o strengths and weaknesses of
theoretical perspectives on the
family;
o relevance of major
perspectives and Caribbean
perspectives on the family to
the Afro-Caribbean and
Indo-Caribbean family
status quo?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
▪ The family is understood in
different ways by the sociological
perspectives.
▪ According to Functionalism (the
dominant source of ideas about the
family), the family is responsible
for carrying out certain ‘functions’
to ensure a stable society, for
example, primary socialisation;
▪ The family is the subject of
research and theorising that suffers
from myths and ethnocentrism.
▪ The sociological perspectives
showed that the family could be
studied at the macro- and
micro-levels; much of the present
feminist research into inequalities
in the family is in the interpretive
perspective.

Activities

Essays
1. Critically assess the extent to which the Functionalist theory of the family can be used to explain
any three family forms in the Caribbean. [2014]
2. "Marxist and functionalist understandings of the family can adequately explain family systems
within the Caribbean." Using examples to illustrate your answer, critically evaluate this statement,
making reference to at least ONE Caribbean territory. [2016]

Issues in Guiding Questions

▪ Discuss the issues associated with
Caribbean 1. What factor most negatively
Family social institutions in the Caribbean impacts the functioning of
families in the Caribbean?

TOPIC & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
WEEKS
Students should:
- through examining case studies and the
use of drama, story writing and creating
posters/brochures/charts/concept
maps/videos/PPT
o use statistics presented in
various formats to describe
selected social issues
affecting families in the
Caribbean
o apply theoretical
perspectives to explaining
the causes and consequences
of various issues affecting
family in the Caribbean
o evaluate solutions to
negative social issues
affecting families in the
Caribbean
Essays
1. The institution of marriage in the contemporary Caribbean is dying. Discuss this view with
reference to THREE sociological explanations of this phenomenon.
RELIGION
29
GUIDING QUESTIONS &
ACTIVITIES
2. What can we learn from
dysfunctional families about the
importance of the family as a
social institution?
3. Is the family the cornerstone of
Caribbean society?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
▪ The family is experiencing threats
to its ‘stability’ through domestic
violence, child abuse, divorce and
teenage pregnancy.
Activities
▪ Policy planning and or
evaluation
▪ Debate
[2012, 25 marks]
 30

TOPIC & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

WEEKS ACTIVITIES
Students should:

Types of belief Guiding Questions

▪ Explain the characteristics of selected
systems
religions in the Caribbean
Organisation of ▪ Explain the functions and
religious groups
transformation of selected religions in
the Caribbean
Changing
o correctly classify Caribbean
patterns /
Evolution of religions into:
Religion in the o types of belief systems;
Caribbean o into different organisations
namely church, cult,
denomination or sect;
o different types of
Afro-Caribbean syncretic
religions
o through writing, appreciate the
role of religion in the lives of
different ethnic groups in the
Caribbean
o describe the evolution of
Caribbean religions in the
Caribbean as influenced by
historical, social, and economic
factors
Topics
▪ Types of belief systems, for example,
animism, naturism, polytheism,
monotheism.
▪ Organisation of religious groups:
church, cult, denomination, sect
▪ The emergence, character and dynamics
of:
- One World Religion;
- Two Afro Caribbean Religions;
1. Am I a member of a sect?
2. What makes a set of practices
religious/sacred rather than
secular?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
▪ Religion is based on what each
society values as ‘the sacred’ and
‘the profane.
▪ Religion is comprised of beliefs in a
supernatural entity/entities or in a
system of ethics.
▪ Religion is observed through rites
and rituals as prescribed by dogma.
▪ Religion is characterised, in
different societies, by the same
concerns – how the faithful should
behave, what is taboo, a concept of
God, the hereafter.
▪ Religion is made up of both
dominant and marginal belief
systems so that in Caribbean
societies there are major churches
or World Religions, and many
smaller ones, including
Afro-Caribbean religions.
▪ Religion is dominated in the
Caribbean by syncretism.
▪ Religion is influenced by history, as
seen in the Caribbean, with
European, Asian, and African
religious influences.
▪ Religion is subject to social change
such as changes brought on by the
contemporary forces of
 31

TOPIC & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

WEEKS ACTIVITIES
Students should:

fundamentalism, secularisation and

globalisation.

Activities
▪ Concept web/map

▪ Puzzle

▪ Case study

▪ Story writing /poetry

Essays
1. Analyse the factors responsible for changes and developments in family patterns in any named
Caribbean society. [2005, 25 marks]
2. Discuss the sociological factors responsible for the changes and developments among religious
groups in the Caribbean today. In your discussion, examine the membership, rites, belief systems
and social behaviour of religious groups in the Caribbean. [2007, 25 marks]
3. Examine the extent to which religious beliefs have affected the lives of followers in the Caribbean.
Support your response with reference to ONE religion in a named Caribbean society and its impact
on Two of the following aspects of social life: economic, cultural, political, technological, and
media. [2009, 25 marks]
4. The religious beliefs of members of a society are a major contributor to social stability. Discuss
this statement with reference to ONE religious group/body and any TWO of its associated beliefs
in a named Caribbean society. [2010, 25 marks]

Theoretical Guiding Questions

▪ Evaluate the main theoretical
perspectives on
Religion perspectives commonly used for the
analysis of religion
- with the aid of case studies and student
presentations,
o outline the main tenets of
the theoretical explanations
of the nature and function of
Caribbean religions;
1. Does religion contribute more
to change, division and chaos
than it does to social order and
social cohesion?
2. Where do women/females
really stand in religion? To what
extent does religion reinforce
patriarchy in society?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
 32

TOPIC & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

WEEKS ACTIVITIES
Students should:

o strengths and weaknesses of

▪ Religion is interpreted differently
theoretical perspectives on
by each sociological perspective.
religion in the Caribbean;
Sociologists study the functions of
o assess the relevance of
religion as a social institution in
major perspectives and holding the society together, or as a
Caribbean perspectives on source of oppression or prejudice,
the nature and function or enabling people to reach states of
religion in the Caribbean comfort or salvation through
- with the aid of examples/case studies, religious observances.
o correctly describe the
concepts of secularisation, Activities
fundamentalism, and ▪ Case study
globalisation;
o apply theoretical ▪ Essay writing
perspectives to an ▪ Student presentations
understanding of
fundamentalism, ▪ Diagrams
secularisation and
globalisation as factors
influencing religion
Topics
▪ Theoretical perspectives
- Consensus
- Conflict
- Interactionist
- Feminist

Essays
1. Edward Brathwaite’s creolisation thesis is an appropriate tool for analysing the social and cultural
milieu of Caribbean societies. Discuss the relevance of this thesis to an understanding of
syncretism in different forms of religion in the region. [2004, 25 marks]
2. The Creole-society approach is useful for an understanding of religious syncretism in the
Caribbean. Discuss the relevance of this approach to TWO faiths (forms of religion). Support your
response with reference to acculturation and interculturation. [2011, 25 marks]
3. "One of the major functions of religion is to act as an agent of social control within society." With
reference to relevant theoretical explanations, critically assess the ways in which religion
 33

TOPIC & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

WEEKS ACTIVITIES
Students should:

maintains order in society. [2016]

4. The influence of religion decreases as society develops. With reference to EITHER the
functionalist OR the conflict perspectives, evaluate this statement in the context of a named
religion in Caribbean society today. [2015]
5. The influence of religion decreases as society develops. With reference to the functionalist and
conflict perspectives, evaluate this statement in the context of a named religion in contemporary
Caribbean Society. [2022]
****
1. Examine the extent to which religious beliefs have affected the lives of followers in the Caribbean.
Support your response with reference to ONE religion in a named Caribbean society and its impact
on Two of the following aspects of social life: economic, cultural, political, technological, and
media. [2009, 25 marks]
2. The religious beliefs of members of a society are a major contributor to social stability. Discuss
this statement with reference to ONE religious group/body and any TWO of its associated beliefs
in a named Caribbean society. [2010, 25 marks]

Issues in Guiding Questions

▪ Discuss the issues associated with
Caribbean
Religion religion in the Caribbean
o describe the nature and impact of
prejudice, discrimination,
intolerance, fundamentalism,
globalisation, and secularisation on
religions in the Caribbean
o assess the usefulness of models of
Caribbean society and culture in
explaining syncretism,
discrimination, prejudice and
ranking in Caribbean religion/apply
the models of Caribbean society and
culture to an understanding religion
in the Caribbean
Topics
1. How are religion and gender
related in the Caribbean?
2. To what extent is creedism an
issue in the Caribbean?
3. To what extent is religion still
about the colonial agenda in the
Caribbean?
4. To what extent does religion
continue to influence everyday
life in the Caribbean?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
▪ Religion is subject to social change
such as changes brought on by the
contemporary forces of
fundamentalism, secularisation and
globalisation.
 34

TOPIC & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

WEEKS ACTIVITIES
Students should:

▪ Prejudice ▪ Religion is full of conflict in

multi-ethnic/religious Caribbean
▪ Discrimination
societies where each religious
▪ Intolerance group sees their own religion as a
basis of identity and is therefore
▪ Secularisation. alert to any ‘threats’ they see as
marginalisation.

Activities
▪ Infographic

Essays
1. Discuss the claim made by some sociologists that in modern societies, religion is losing its social
significance. [2006, 25 marks]
2. Secularization is a feature of most religions in Caribbean society. Discuss this view with reference
to secularization of ONE named religion in the Caribbean. In your response include TWO
arguments to support your position. [2012, 25 marks]
3. The influence of religion decreases as society develops. With reference to EITHER the
functionalist OR the conflict perspectives, evaluate this statement in the context of a named
religion in Caribbean society today.
4. The influence of religion decreases as society develops. With reference to the functionalist and
conflict perspectives, evaluate this statement in the context of a named religion in contemporary
Caribbean Society. [2022]

EDUCATION

Development of Guiding Questions

▪ Explain the characteristics and
Education in the 1. What are the main factors that
Caribbean. functions of educational systems in have influenced and continue to
the Caribbean influence the evolution of
▪ Explain the transformations of education in the Caribbean?
2. In what ways has education in
Changing educational systems in the the Caribbean evolved since the
patterns / Caribbean pre-emancipation era?
Evolution 3. Has the influence of global
o trace the evolution of factors on our education system
Caribbean education been beneficial to Caribbean

TOPIC & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
WEEKS
Students should:
systems from the period of
early colonisation to the
present
o explain how key factors
including industrialisation,
globalisation, and
independence have affected
Caribbean education
systems
Topics
▪ Key Terms
▪ Levels of education
▪ Purpose of education
▪ Development of education
▪ Establishment and expansion
(post-emancipation, post-independence,
decolonisation and regionalism).
▪ Education in the twenty-first century,
for example, distance learning, use of
modern technology.
35
GUIDING QUESTIONS &
ACTIVITIES
citizens?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
▪ The social institution of education
embodies the ideas, beliefs and
values adopted by a society about
how to pass on its body of skills
and knowledge to its new members.
It includes how these have
motivated social groups to shape
the organisations, structures and
patterns evident today in the system
of education.
▪ Education is often thought to be
synonymous with schooling, but
education has a broader reach in
that it encompasses all kinds of
learning.
▪ Education is a ‘contested’ arena of
conflicting, dominant and marginal
ideas about how best to educate
children.
▪ Education is a mix of historical and
contemporary ideas about education
which sometimes are not
compatible.
▪ Education is intertwined with all
social institutions but particularly
with religion, the family, the
economy and politics.
▪ Education is influenced by the
colonial encounter, especially in the
importance accorded to high-stakes
examinations and the nature of the
curriculum.
Activities
 36

TOPIC & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

WEEKS ACTIVITIES
Students should:

▪ Essay

▪ Timeline

▪ Portfolio

Essays
1. Analyse attempts to achieve educational reform in a named Caribbean country since independence.
[2005, 25 marks]

Theoretical Guiding Questions

▪ Evaluate the main theoretical
perspectives on
Education perspectives commonly used for the
analysis of education in the Caribbean
o outline the main tenets of
the theoretical explanations
of the nature and function of
education
o strengths and weaknesses of
theoretical perspectives on
education in the Caribbean
o assess the relevance of
major perspectives and
Caribbean perspectives on
the nature and function
education
Topics
▪ Consensus
▪ Conflict
▪ Interactionist
▪ Feminist
1. What is the societal/social value
of formal education?
2. Is it correct to say that
education is an ideological tool
used by the ruling class to
control the working class? Are
you being brainwashed?
3. What would it take to achieve
gender equity in education?
4. Do stereotypes and teachers’
perceptions of students matter?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
▪ Education is viewed differently by
each of the main sociological
perspectives, as well as by the
subperspectives of Critical theory
and Feminist theory.
▪ Education is intertwined with all
social institutions but particularly
with religion, the family, the
economy and politics.

Activities
▪ Case study

▪ Essay writing
 37

TOPIC & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

WEEKS ACTIVITIES
Students should:

▪ Student presentations

▪ Diagrams

▪ Mini social research

Essays
1. Examine the relevance of the interactionist approach to an understanding of the education system
in a named Caribbean society. [2009, 25 marks]
2. Assess the relevance of the interactionist perspective to an understanding of the performance of
males in the education system. Refer to at least ONE study conducted in the Caribbean to support
your response. [2017]
3. It is the view of some sociologists that the education system ensures the maintenance of social
inequality. Critically assess this view with reference to a named Caribbean society over the past
fifty years. [2014]
4. Discuss the relevance of ONE sociological perspective to an understanding of the distribution of
educational opportunities in a named Caribbean society. Support your response with reference to
ant TWO of the following: social class, gender, government policy. Reference can also be made to
a relevant empirical study in a named Caribbean society. [2010, 25 marks]

Issues in Guiding Questions

▪ discuss the issues associated with social
Education in the
Caribbean institutions in the Caribbean
o evaluate the success of
Caribbean education
systems in achieving goals:
▪ reducing social
inequality,
▪ meeting the needs of
a global labour force
▪ social order,
o describe some of the major
issues affecting Caribbean
education systems
o apply the major theoretical
perspectives to explaining
● To what extent can the
Caribbean education system be
considered relevant and current
in the 21st century?
● Is education really the great
equaliser it is supposed to be in
the Caribbean?
Main Points (Mohammed, 2014)
● Education is a ‘contested’ arena
of conflicting, dominant and
marginal ideas about how best
to educate children.
● Education is experiencing rapid
social change owing to waves
of reform stimulated by global
interventions about the nature
and purpose of education.
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TOPIC & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES GUIDING QUESTIONS &

WEEKS ACTIVITIES
Students should:

the causes and consequences ● Education is challenged in the

of issues affecting Caribbean
education systems
o assess the usefulness of
reasoned solutions to issues Activities
affecting Caribbean
education systems
o appreciate the value of
education in Caribbean
society and development
present era to deliver quality
education and gender equity.
● Essay
● Issue paper, case study
● Case study
● Diagrams
● Mini social research

Topics
▪ Inequality

▪ Underachievement

▪ Delinquency

▪ Dropouts

▪ Globalisation.

2. With reference to at least TWO studies done in the Caribbean, evaluate the view that female
educational underachievement is a thing of the past. [2007, 25 marks]
3. It is the view of some sociologists that the education system ensures the maintenance of social
inequality. Critically assess this view with reference to a named Caribbean society over the past
fifty years. [2014]
4. Discuss TWO consequences of male underachievement in the education system and assess the
relevance of EITHER the functionalist OR conflict perspective to an understanding of why
females outperform males in Caribbean society today. [2015]
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