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Read Item B below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 4
Read Item B below and answer the question that follows. Item B Since the introduction of marketisation policies to education, over 30 years ago, competition has gro... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read Item B below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Applying material from Item B and your knowledge, evaluate the view that marketisation policies have increased diversity and choice in the education system.
Answer
Marketisation policies, introduced over 30 years ago, aimed to increase competition and choice in the education sector. Proponents, particularly New Right theorists, argue that these policies have enabled parents to choose the best school for their children, thereby driving up standards. This is evidenced by the variety of schools available, such as academies, free schools, and specialized institutions. Such diversity can empower parents and align education more closely with individual needs.
Despite this, many sociologists argue that the concept of choice is limited. Factors such as socio-economic status significantly affect parents' ability to exercise choice, as not all families have equal access to information or resources. Furthermore, the focus on market forces could lead to a stratification of schools, where popular schools become oversubscribed, and less popular ones struggle, potentially reinforcing existing inequalities.
Additionally, while marketisation aims to create diversity, it may lead to a homogenization of education, as schools compete on similar metrics — often standardized testing outcomes — rather than genuinely innovating in pedagogy.
In conclusion, while marketisation policies have ostensibly increased choice and diversity in the educational landscape, significant barriers remain, implying that real choice may indeed be limited, thus calling into question the effectiveness of these policies in achieving their intended goals.