UNIVERSITY OF KABIANGA
SCHOOL OF EDUCATION ARTS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION PSYCHOLOGY AND
FOUNDATION
CAT 2
COURSE: SOCIOLOGY OF EDUCATION
COURSE CODE: EDF 110
REG NO. EGC/M/0851/2024
NAME: FAITH CHEMUTAI
TELEPHONE NO.:0726353082
LECTURER NAME: DR. EDWARD OKANDA
1.) Highlight the justification for studying sociology of education (10 mks).
Understanding Social Inequality: It reveals how education can perpetuate or reduce social
inequalities, helping address issues like gender, class, and ethnic disparities.
Social Integration and Cohesion: It examines how education promotes unity by instilling shared
values, beliefs, and practices in society, fostering a sense of belonging.
Role in Social Change: Education is instrumental in driving social change, influencing ideologies,
and preparing individuals to adapt to evolving societal needs.
Educational Policies and Reform: It informs policy decisions by evaluating how social forces
impact education, helping improve policies for better educational outcomes.
Development of Human Capital: Sociology of education highlights education’s role in
developing skills and knowledge, which are essential for economic growth and productivity.
Influence on Identity and Behavior: It explores how schools shape students' identity, behavior,
and moral values, impacting their integration into society.
Power Dynamics: It investigates the influence of power structures on education, including how
government, corporations, and interest groups shape curricula and access.
Global Perspectives: It allows for a comparative understanding of different educational systems
worldwide, broadening perspectives on best practices and reforms.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: It encourages critical analysis of the education system,
empowering individuals to propose and advocate for positive changes.
Career Development: Knowledge in the sociology of education prepares individuals for careers
in teaching, policy-making, counseling, and social work.
2.) Examine five main agents of socialisation, giving strengths and weaknesses of
each. (20mks).
1. Family
o Strengths: Provides early socialization and emotional support; instills foundational
values, norms, and language skills; establishes a sense of identity and belonging.
o Weaknesses: Can perpetuate biases, inequalities, or negative behaviors; limited
exposure to diversity if family environment is homogeneous; potential for generational
transmission of prejudices.
2. School
o Strengths: Teaches formal knowledge and social skills; prepares individuals for societal
roles; promotes social cohesion and exposes students to diverse backgrounds.
o Weaknesses: Often reinforces societal inequalities due to resource disparities; may stifle
creativity with rigid curricula; peer pressure can negatively influence behavior and self-
esteem.
3. Peer Groups
o Strengths: Offers a sense of belonging outside the family; helps develop social skills,
independence, and identity; provides emotional support and camaraderie.
o Weaknesses: Peer pressure can lead to risky behavior; can reinforce negative
stereotypes or bullying; may influence individuals to prioritize group norms over
personal values.
4. Mass Media
o Strengths: Informs and educates on a wide range of topics; introduces cultural diversity;
plays a role in shaping public opinion and creating awareness of societal issues.
o Weaknesses: Can spread misinformation or unrealistic expectations; often promotes
stereotypes or consumerism; exposure to violent or inappropriate content can affect
behavior.
5. Religion
o Strengths: Instills moral values, ethics, and a sense of purpose; fosters community and
support networks; provides a framework for understanding life and societal
expectations.
o Weaknesses: Can lead to intolerance or exclusion of differing beliefs; may impose strict
norms that limit individual freedom; potential for manipulation by religious authorities.
