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TABLE OF CONTENT

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Date: Sunday, 24 August 2025, 1:37 PM

Description

Sociology of education is a foundation subject in teacher education. It defines the concept of sociology and its application to education. The course seeks to equip the learner with knowledge and attitudes that will enable them to appreciate the role of Sociology in education. The unit exposes the learners to study individuals' experiences and situations that influence education. This course also examines, social institutions and their influence on educational attainment and achievement.

This unit will enable you to understand social processes related to education such as the socialization process, the family, and the school as socializing agents. This will help you to teach learners with different learning abilities. You are also expected to learn about the school as an institution as well as an organization. For you to fully understand the school as an educational institution, you are expected to learn how the school relates to the community. Additionally, Education and social stratification will enable you to effectively explain aspects related to social mobility and the provision of educational opportunities. Social functions of education will be discussed in order to understand the diverseness of education and the opportunities it provides. Socio-economic issues in education will also be discussed to provide a clear linkage and general awareness of current problems facing education

Table of contents

1. Topic 1: Introduction to Sociology of education

Introduction

Definition of Terms:

              a)           Sociology

   - In Latin, socio means society and in Greek, Logy means to study.  Therefore, Sociology refers to the study of society.

   -It is also the study of social relationships.

   - It is a scientific study of human behaviour in groups

b) Society

 -Refers to an organised group of people with common ties, operating through its interacting systems of institutions established to ensure, nurture, defence and survival for its members.

 -Societies are there to ensure that psychological, physiological and security needs of its members are well catered for. This is achieved through the establishment of specialised structures called social institutions.

c) Education

 - Refers to the acquisition of knowledge, skills, values, attitudes etc, of a society so as to become full and integrated members of that society.

   - It is both formal and informal. Individuals do not have to go to school or any formal setup to be educated. Knowledge, attitudes skills/practice, values etc., can be acquired in the process of daily interactions.

d) Sociology of Education

  -This is a branch of sociology that studies the social side of education.

  - It attempts to systematically study the sociological problems (those originating from the society), patterns and process that are found/associated with the education practice.

Discovery of new ideas and facts

Culture

This term is derived from the German word hzrltur which refers to someone who is well cultivated, schooled or behaved. Ezewu (1983) defines it as the sum total of: human creation which includes what man has made in form of tools, weapons, shelter, material goods, attitudes, beliefs, judgment, institutions, arts, science, philosophy, and social organizations up to the present time. Culture can therefore be viewed as constituting the way of life of an entire society. This includes codes of manners, dress, language, rituals, norms of behaviour and systems of belief.

Social

This means something pertaining or belonging to, associated with or part of the human society.

Society

Society refers to a collectivity of human beings that is capable of self-replenishment through sexual reproduction, recruitment and admission of new members from other societies. It can also refer to a congregation of humans that exhibits complex systems of actions to regulate, protect, defend, unite, nurture and promote the well being and survival of all the members.

Educational sociology

This refers to the study of the social factors that influence and are influenced by all educational structures and processes, both within and between societies.

Social System

In sociology, social system is the patterned network of relationships constituting a coherent whole that exist between individuals, groups, and institutions. It is the formal structure of role and status that can form in a small, stable group

Social Change

Social change, in sociology, the alteration of mechanisms within the social structure, characterized by changes in cultural symbols, rules of behavior, social organizations, or value systems.

Social Structure

Social structure, in sociology, the distinctive, stable arrangement of institutions whereby human beings in a society interact and live together. Social structure is often treated together with the concept of social change, which deals with the forces that change the social structure and the organization of society.

Importance of studying sociology of education.

· It introduces the teacher to sociological perspectives of education which include ; learners, teachers, the school.

· It enables the teacher to understand the importance of interaction with the learners in a classroom Situation.

· Acquaints teachers with knowledge about social needs of both learner and society;

· Gives an understanding of the social background of an individual and its influence on the individual’s learning.

· Familiarises teachers with the contemporary social problems that face the schools e.g. drug abuse, strikes, permissiveness and promiscuity;

· Teachers get better understanding of group interaction patterns and how to influence or put it into use in a school situation’

· Improves teacher’s management of students, parents and the school community at large;

· Interaction with other teachers is easier;

 Factors that make Sociology a Science

In its original fundamental meaning Science - from the Latin word, Scientia - simply means knowledge as distinct from belief, speculation or intuition. A science is a discipline or a field of study that brings true or factual knowledge. A scientific method of study is one which leads to knowledge or cognition. Comte called Sociology a science be-cause lie emphasized the gathering and accumulation of knowledge on social phenomenon through the use of scientific observation, investigation, or studies. He emphasized tile use of scientific studies of human societies that would facilitate the discovery, prediction and control of observed social phenomenon (Gwarinda, 1993).

Sociology has been able to claim the label of a science by demonstrating, over a long period of time, the same traits that have generally characterized various sciences. These, according to Gwarinda (1993), include the following:

a)  Systematicness

A scientific method of investigation has to be systematic. This refers to logical sequence or steps that lead to logical or justifiable conclusions. This means that   the results of such investigations must be valid. Sociology emphasizes reliance on verifiable evidence. 

b)  Objectivity

Scientific methods employ ways of investigation that reveal things as they really are. This means that the investigator is able to put aside personal feelings, biases, prejudices and emotions when studying a phenomenon. Objectivity is emphasized in all sociological studies

c)  Empiricism

One characteristic of a scientific method is creating knowledge through observation or experiment rather than mere postulation which is not based oil facts. An empirical study focuses on the collection of data (pieces of information) which are then used to explain a phenomenon. What sociologists do is to collect data which may prove or disprove a theory or use the data to generate new theories. The same data may lead to different theories in explaining; a phenomenon, a very common, occurrence in any science.

Like all scientists, sociologists gain their knowledge by doing re-search. Their methods, however, differ from those of most other scientists. These, methods are classified as either quantitative: using numerical data; or qualitative: relying on narrative and descriptive data. Quantitative research is usually conducted through the use of surveys and pre-collected data, while field research is the method most commonly used in qualitative research. Scientists use a research method known as the scientific method. They identify a problem, formulate a hypothesis, conduct research, collect and analyze data and state their findings and conclusions. Researchers have an ethical obligation to protect participants' privacy acid to avoid deceiving or harming them.

 

d)  Replicability and Transmutability

In science, one research after another can investigate the same phenomenon in the same way leading to the same explanation and prediction thus enabling the acquired knowledge to be passed on to others (Bless and Achola,19880). Replicability is however only possible under the same prevailing conditions. This also applies to Sociology. 

e)  Reductivity

Scientific methods have the ability to reveal the essential from the trivial, necessity from chance, fundamentals from irrelevancies. Through this principle, sound generalizations or laws can be formulated, thus building up the body of knowledge   in a discipline. Sociological analyses have been used to reveal fundamentals from irrelevancies. Issues like causes of drug abuse, teenage pregnancy and abortion have been analyzed from a sociological perspective.

f)  Causation

Scientists assume that an event occurs for a reason, a concept known as causation, and that all events have causes. When they conduct studies, scientists identify variables to investigate and look for correlations of how things relate to one another. Three standards are used to determine causal relationships: two variables must be correlated, all other possible factors must be taken into account, and a change in the independent variable must occur before a change in the dependent variable can occur. The concept of causation is applicable in sociological studies.

Sociology is therefore a science since it meets all these criteria for the scientific methods.In science, one research after another can investigate the same phenomenon in the same way leading to the same explanation and prediction thus enabling the acquired knowledge to be passed on to others (Bless and Achola,19880). Replicability is however only possible under the same prevailing conditions. This also applies to Sociology

g)  Reductivity

Scientific methods have the ability to reveal the essential from the trivial, necessity from chance, fundamentals from irrelevancies. Through this principle, sound generalizations or laws can be formulated, thus building up the body of knowledge   in a discipline. Sociological analyses have been used to reveal fundamentals from irrelevancies. Issues like causes of drug abuse, teenage pregnancy and abortion have been analyzed from a sociological perspective.

h)  Causation

Scientists assume that an event occurs for a reason, a concept known as causation, and that all events have causes. When they conduct studies, scientists identify variables to investigate and look for correlations of how things relate to one another. Three standards are used to determine causal relationships: two variables must be correlated, all other possible factors must be taken into account, and a change in the independent variable must occur before a change in the dependent variable can occur. The concept of causation is applicable in sociological studies.

Sociology is therefore a science since it meets all these criteria for the scientific methods

OTHER FACTORS

·  Discovery of new ideas and facts

·  Study based on existing theories

· Investigates man’s behaviour

· Studies are precise and controlled

·  Tries to gather new facts to check and modify existing patterns of behaviour and interaction

•       Gives ability to provide social guidance to students and others

2. TOPIC 2FAMILY AND SCHOOL FUNCTIONS IN EDUCATION

Meaning of a family: Is a group of related kin linked by blood, marriage and adoption, who occupy a
common household and cooperate economically.
TYPES OF FAMILY
There are several types of family structures, each with its unique characteristics. Here are some
common types:
Nuclear/ Monogamous Family: Consists of two parents and their children living together.
Extended Family: Includes additional relatives beyond the nuclear family, such as
grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Single-Parent Family: One parent raises one or more children, often due to divorce, separation,
or the death of a partner.
Blended Family: Formed when one or both partners in a relationship have children from
previous relationships, and they come together to form a new family unit.
Childless Family: Couples who do not have children, either by choice or due to circumstances.
Foster Family: A temporary family setting where children are placed in a home due to various
circumstances, providing care until they can be reunited with their biological families or
adopted.
Adoptive Family: Families formed through the legal adoption of children who are not
biologically related to them.
Manandrous family
This is when a woman marries one man. The woman is in control of the household and the children belong
to her.
Polygamous family: A man marries more than one wife. The man has control over the members and the
household. Common in African societies.
Polyandrous family: The woman marries several men at a time and they belong to her domain. She
controls them.2 | P a g e
Group family: This is where by arrangement of a group of men marry a group of women. When the
children grow up, they have sexual relations within the groups. Eg the Aiyetoro community of Ondo state in
Nigeria
NB: Though the types of families vary widely in their dynamics, roles, and relationships among
members, only the types of families stipulated in Constitution of Kenya (2010) are recognized in
this unit as guided by the occupational standards.
FAMILY FUNCTIONS
Family functions refer to the various roles and responsibilities that families fulfill in society. The functions
are essential for the well-being of individuals and the overall stability of society. Here are some key
functions of a family:
Emotional psychological Support: Families provide love, care, and emotional security, helping
members develop a sense of belonging and self-worth.
Socialization: Families play a crucial role in teaching children societal norms, values, and
behaviors, helping them learn how to interact with others.
Economic Support: Families often share resources and provide financial assistance,
contributing to the economic stability of their members.
Reproduction/ Child bearing: Families are responsible for producing and rising the next generation,
ensuring the continuation of society.
Education: Families serve as the primary educators of children, imparting knowledge, skills,
and cultural heritage.
Protection and Security: Families offer a safe environment, protecting members from external
threats and providing a sense of security.
Social Identity: Families contribute to an individual’s identity, influencing their social roles,
cultural background, and community connections.
Values and Beliefs: Parents and family members instill cultural, moral, and educational values,
which influence a child's attitude toward learning, their work ethic, and their approach to
challenges.
Health and Well-being: Families contribute to the physical and mental well-being of children
by ensuring proper nutrition, sleep, and health care. This directly affects a child's ability to
concentrate, learn, and succeed academically.3 | P a g e
Modeling Behavior: Parents and family members serve as role models. Children often imitate
the behaviors, attitudes, and practices they see at home, including how to handle stress, manage
time, or approach problems, all of which affect their educational outcomes.
Communication with Schools: Active communication between families and educational
institutions strengthens the support system around the child. Parents who are engaged in
school events, meetings, and their child’s academic progress can provide valuable insights and
advocate for their child's needs.
FAMILY AND SCHOOL INVOLVEMENT IN EDUCATION
Supportive Home Environment: Families create a conducive environment for learning by
establishing routines, providing resources, and encouraging good study habits.
Communication: Open lines of communication between parents and children about school
activities, assignments, and challenges help children feel supported.
Participation in School Activities: Families can engage in school events, such as parent
teacher conferences, workshops, and extracurricular activities, fostering a connection with the
school community.
Encouragement: Parents can motivate their children by showing interest in their education,
celebrating achievements, and helping them set academic goals.
Volunteering: Family members who volunteer to participate in school activities contribute to a
positive school environment and demonstrate the importance of education to their children.
Enrolling children in schools
Provision of books and other resources/materials
Motivation for performance
Helps in homework
 
Influencing on career choice and job aspirations.
TYPES OF MARRIAGES
There are various types of marriage according to constitution of Kenya (2010).They include:
Customary marriage4 | P a g e
This is done by arrangement by the concerned families. Dowry is paid and it is a form of compensation for
the loss of a member of the family.
Religious marriage
This differs from one religion to another eg. Islam, Christian, Hindu etc. For instance, the Christian marriage
is supposed to be monogamous and additional wives are considered illegitimate. This type can only be
formally ended through divorce. It is usually expensive because of the weddings done. (marriage certificate
is given)
Civil marriage
This type takes place in a registry office such as the Attorney, D.C etc. It is supposed to be monogamous and
can be dissolved through divorce. It gives the wife and children stronger inheritance rights than the
customary type.
Come we stay
This is where two people decide to stay together and start a family. Many people prefer this type because it
is not expensive.
These types can vary significantly in terms of legal recognition and cultural acceptance
depending on the region and society.
CHANGES IN TRADITIONAL AND MODERN FAMILIES
The structure and dynamics of families have changed significantly over time. Here are key
changes:
1. Family structure
Traditional families- embraced extended type of family. The family often operated as a more
hierarchical unit while modern families are more diverse in structure.
2. Roles of family members
Traditional families- The father was the breadwinner while the mother was the homemaker
and caregiver. Gender roles were clearly defined.Modern families- Gender roles are more fluid, with both men and women sharing
responsibilities in work, childcare and housework. Dual income households have become more
common and caregiving roles are shared more equally.
3. Marriage and Family life
Traditional families- Marriage was seen as a lifelong commitment, often influenced by societal
expectations. Divorce rates were lower due to social stigma around separation.
Modern families - Marriage is viewed more as a partnership of choice, and divorce has
become common. There’s more focus on personal happiness and compatibility, rather than just
fulfilling societal expectations.
4. Parenting style
Traditional families- Parenting was more authoritative, with a focus on discipline, obedience
and respect for authority.
Modern families- Parenting styles are more varied, with an emphasis on communication,
emotional support and fostering independence. Parents are focused on positive reinforcement
and less on strict discipline.
5. Technology and communication
Traditional families- Communication was face to face or through traditional methods.
Technology was less integrated into family life.
Modern families- Family members often interact through social media, smartphones and
online communication flat forms. This can sometimes create distance in personal connections,
even as it offers new ways for family members to stay in touch.
6. Cultural and societal expectations
Traditional families- The roles and expectations were often influenced by religion, culture and
the community, with less flexibility for non- conventional family structure.
Modern families- There is greater acceptance of diverse family forms and lifestyle choices.
Societal expectations are less rigid, and there’s more focus on individual choice and freedom.
7. Parent child relationship
Traditional families- Parents had more authority over children, with less negotiation or input
from children regarding family decisions.
5 | P a g e6 | P a g e
Modern families- Parents and children tend to have more collaborative relationships. Children
are often seen as partners in decision making and their opinions are valued more.
IMPLICATIONS OF FAMILY CHANGES ON EDUCATION
Family changes can have significant implications for a child's education. These changes can
affect both the emotional and academic well-being of students, influencing their school
performance and overall development. Some key implications include:
Emotional and Psychological Impact: Family changes often cause emotional stress, anxiety, or
instability, which can affect a child's focus, motivation, and overall attitude toward school. A
child dealing with such stress may have difficulty concentrating, leading to lower academic
performance and behavior issues.
Academic Performance: Stressful family transitions can hinder cognitive functioning, making
it harder for students to retain information, complete assignments, or participate in class.
Children may also miss school due to emotional distress, illness, or family responsibilities,
which can impact their academic progress.
Changes in Financial Status: A shift in the family’s financial situation, whether due to divorce,
job loss, or other reasons, can affect a child's access to educational resources, extracurricular
activities, or even basic needs such as food and stable housing. This can create disparities in
academic opportunities and outcomes.
Changes in Social Environment: Moving to a new home, school, or neighborhood due to family
changes can disrupt a child’s social networks. Loss of familiar support systems may lead to
feelings of isolation or difficulty adjusting, affecting their social and emotional development.
Parental Involvement and Support: Family changes may alter the level of parental
involvement in a child's education. For example, Single parents or dual-income households may
have less time to engage in their children’s education, leading to decreased parental oversight
and support.
Behavioral and Social Adjustments: Family transitions, especially those involving conflict or
separation, can lead to behavioral challenges at school, such as aggression, withdrawal, or poor 7 | P a g e
impulse control. These behavioral issues might be a coping mechanism for dealing with family
stress but can impact relationships with peers and teachers.
School Engagement and Dropout Risk: If children experience ongoing family instability, they
may become disengaged from school, leading to a higher risk of dropping out. Lack of stability
or a change in household responsibilities might lead students to prioritize work or family
obligations over their education.
Educational Access and Equity: Economic disparities in changing family structures can limit
access to technology, especially in single-parent or low-income households, exacerbating the
digital divide.
6. Influence on Aspirations : Family changes may shift parental focus from educational
aspirations to immediate survival needs, reducing long-term planning for children's education.
 
SUMMARY
• There are more divorces than before due to conflicts at home
• The children are not socialized with good moral
• Children have lost their native language
• Socialization of children have been left to house helps
• Majority of the women are bread winners leading to high rate of divorce
• Men are not happy in sharing household chores leading to family violence
• Due to diverse socializing agents individuals are getting confused on values and norms
FAMILY FUNCTIONS IN EDUCATION
The family plays a foundational role in shaping a child’s educational journey. Through its
various functions, the family acts as the first social institution that influences a child's academic,
emotional, and social development. These functions include:
1. Socialization• Role: The family introduces children to cultural norms, values, and expectations, which
are crucial for functioning in a school environment.
• Impact on Education: Children learn communication, respect for authority, and
cooperation, forming the basis for classroom behavior and peer interactions.
2. Emotional Support
• Role: Families provide a secure and nurturing environment that supports emotional
well-being.
• Impact on Education: A stable family life fosters confidence and resilience, enabling
students to cope with academic challenges and social pressures.
3. Economic Support
• Role: Families are responsible for providing financial resources for school supplies, fees,
transportation, and technology.
• Impact on Education: Economic stability enhances access to quality education,
extracurricular activities, and enrichment programs, while financial struggles can limit
opportunities.
4. Educational Motivation
• Role: Families instill the importance of education and set expectations for academic
achievement.
• Impact on Education: Parents and caregivers act as role models, shaping students’
attitudes toward learning and fostering ambition and perseverance.
5. Supervision and Guidance
• Role: Families monitor children’s academic progress and provide guidance in decision
making.
8 | P a g e• Impact on Education: Active involvement in homework, parent-teacher interactions,
and career planning ensures that students remain focused and supported.
6. Cultural Transmission
• Role: Families pass on cultural traditions, languages, and practices.
• Impact on Education: This contributes to a child’s identity and enriches the diversity of
the classroom, influencing curriculum development and multicultural education
practices.
7. Moral Development
• Role: Families teach ethical values and principles.
• Impact on Education: Strong moral grounding helps students adhere to school rules,
respect others, and develop a sense of responsibility.
8. Advocacy
• Role: Families advocate for their children’s educational needs, especially in systems
requiring special support or accommodations.
• Impact on Education: Parental advocacy ensures that schools address individual
student needs, from special education services to gifted programs.
Knowledge check
1. Explore the Constitution of Kenya (2010) and outline the various types of families
2. Explore the Education policy of Kenya and examine how family should be school
involved in education of their children
3. In groups, discuss changes in traditional and modern families and their implication in
TVET institutions in Kenya.
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