Read Item B below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 1

Introduction

In examining the sociological explanations of social class differences in educational achievement, we must consider both external and internal factors as highlighted in Item B. External factors include socioeconomic status, parental involvement, and cultural capital, while internal factors encompass the educational system itself, including curricula and teaching methods.

External Factors

1. Parental Influence: Research indicates that parents from higher socioeconomic backgrounds tend to be more involved in their children's education. They can provide additional resources, such as tutoring and help with homework, which can enhance academic performance.

2. Cultural Capital: Bourdieu’s theory of cultural capital explains that families from middle-class backgrounds often possess knowledge and attitudes valued by schools, helping their children succeed. In contrast, working-class students may lack this cultural capital, leading to varying levels of achievement.

Internal Factors

1. Education System Structure: The education system itself can perpetuate social class differences through tracking and streaming. Students are often categorized based on their perceived abilities, which can lead to unequal access to quality education.

2. Curricular Bias: Some argue that the curriculum is biased towards the experiences and perspectives of the middle class. This can disengage working-class students who may find the content irrelevant or unrelatable, affecting their motivation and achievement.

The Interaction of External and Internal Factors

It is essential to recognize that external and internal factors do not operate in isolation. For instance, a student's home environment can influence their performance in school, while the school’s response to different backgrounds can amplify or mitigate these effects. For example, a supportive school with robust outreach can help bridge gaps created by socioeconomic status.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while sociologists have put forward compelling arguments for both external and internal explanations for social class differences in educational achievement, understanding the interplay between these factors is crucial. It is the synthesis of these influences that ultimately shapes educational outcomes, demonstrating the complex nature of this sociological issue.