The concept of sociology of education has gained a lot of momentum in the education sector over the last few years. There has always been a strong question present to understand what is sociology of education.
When talking about the sociology of education, it mostly refers to the study of methods through which it becomes possible for public institutions and individual experiences to affect the education sector. Sociology of education is also associated with finding the outcomes associated with education in public sectors.
Sociology of education is the study of the relationship between society and education. The definition behind what is sociology of education also refers to the study of how the individual experience and public institutions can affect education and its outcomes. It concerns the system of public schools of modern industrial societies. It includes the expansion of higher, adult, and continuing education. Auguste Comte is called the Father of Sociology. Thus, to define what is sociology of education, it mostly talks about the strong influence that individual experiences have on the education of students.
The individual experience that a person gets can be from family, friends, society, and all other people with whom the person interacts. The public institutions that affect the education of a person can be school, college, place of work, or any such institutions.
The sociology of education is mostly concerned with the schooling systems that are in place. Through the help of this term it will become possible to understand what factors associated with the education sector have the most influence on higher education for the students.
The major purpose behind this concept is to understand how the process of education works. It aims to analyze what kind of methods can be incorporated in the education sector by institutions so that a balance can be developed with regard to economic, political, cultural and other factors that will need to be taught to the students.
In simple terms the major functions of sociology of education can be stated to be associated with outlining how education as a social institution has an effect on the individual. At the same time it also aims to address the problems that are present between the education sector to outline strategies on how to mitigate the same. Similarly the function of sociology of education is also associated with understanding the role of education systems when it comes to influencing the society and shipping it for the better.
As a result through this theory it will be possible to also understand the other aspects that are associated with the social system as a whole. This includes the social stratification that may be present along with the political structure prevalent in the society. On better assessment of these relationships it will be possible to better support the education sector and influence it positively.
The sociology of education aims to study how social elements have an effect on schools and individuals, to acquire knowledge about democratic ideologies, to help create curricula that will best meet each child’s need and cater to their personality development, etc.
Sociology of Education is an important, optimistic, and fundamental aim, characterised by the aspirations for betterment and progress of the learning environment. It is a means of improving the standards of education and in turn, helping the young generation achieve a greater quality of life.
The sociology of education is recognized as a place where there is an opportunity for the students to learn and develop unique skills that they need and have the potential for. It is not only beneficial for children but also for young teens and older adults too.