Unit 3
Equality of Educational Opportunity

In this unit, we examine the effectiveness of the educational system in dealing with social inequality within a pluralist society. We examine the nature of inequalities and the processes of the educational system, and consider how the interactions of the two bring about specific outcomes for students.

This unit is divided into three sections. In Section 1, we examine the issue of social inequality in broad terms, and discuss how social inequality is reproduced through the educational system. In Section 2, we look at poverty and social class, and in Section 3, we examine gender issues. This is the first of two units addressing issues of social equality, difference and education. In Unit 4, we develop some of the questions surrounding race and ethnicity.

Objectives

After completing Unit 3, you should be able to

1. identify the varying conceptions of social inequality, and discuss how inequality interacts with education.
2. describe the ways in which poverty and social class have affected and continue to affect the educational experiences of students.
3. describe the ways in which sexism has affected and continues to affect the educational and occupational experiences of women as students and educators.