Three Educational Theories

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses three educational theories; the functionalist theory, the conflict theory and the interactionist theory, and examines the perspectives offered by each, as well as the theories' expectations for individuals. The writer selects realism as the theory he most agrees with and explains how the realist theory is quite similar to the functionalist theory. The paper then shows how the functionalist and the conflict educational theories are based on the same concepts, but they promote them in different manners.

From the Paper:

"Historically, three educational theories have been identified at the basis of the social community as well as at the basis of the educational system: the functionalist theory, the conflict theory and the interactionist theory. The first of the theories relates to basic and common knowledge, which is not necessarily taught in schools. It is more of the school of life, which teaches the norms of behavior and morals. The functionalist theories stand at the basis on human interactions, survival and social development. Among the primary ideas promoted by the advocates of this theory are individualism, liberty of rights, self and social esteem. The conflict theory promotes similar concepts as the previous one, but from a different perspective."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Stevens, W., Functional and Conflict Theory: A Point of View, 2008, http://www.helium.com/items/828440-functional-and-conflict-theory-a-point-of-view last accessed on September 10, 2008
• Webb L., Metha A., & Jordan, K. 2007. Foundations of American Education 5th edition, Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson Merrill Prentice Hall
• 2008, Theories of Education, Cliff Notes, last accessed on September 10, 2008

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