Summary of Schools and Society: A Sociological Approach to Education

Schools and Society: A Sociological Approach to Education is a foundational textbook by sociologists Jeanne H. Ballantine and Joan Z. Spade. The book provides an in-depth look at the role of education in society, examining the overlapping influences of technology, politics, economics, and culture. Through a summary of the relevant theoretical foundations and a series of case studies, the book shows how education is intertwined with other social structures and institutions and how these systems and structures reinforce or undermine opportunities for learning. By exploring the increasing impact of globalization and its increased reliance on technology and virtual networks, the book offers readers a comprehensive look at the role of education beyond the classroom and into the wider world. Additionally, Schools and Society introduces readers to the diverse array of stakeholders in the field of education, including students, teachers, policymakers, and employers. The book provides a critical examination of the role of educational institutions in creating, maintaining, and perpetuating inequity, looking at how different forms of inequality are manifested across educational and social spaces. By incorporating a variety of perspectives and experiences, the book offers readers the opportunity to better understand the complexity of educational systems and the critical role that education plays in the modern world.