Social Problem Analytic Framework:
Equity in Education In sociology, it is important to understand how to analyze a social problem using the micro and macro analytic perspectives. This assignment will help you learn this skill.
In an essay (1,000-1,500 words) you will analyze the problem of equity in education. Use the following analytic framework to construct your essay.
Required: a minimum of three scholarly sources to support the analysis (your text can be one source). Be sure this is an integrated, fully developed essay (e.g., do not simply provide a response in each category of the analytic framework below).
As with all analytic essays, you should have a well-formulated introduction and conclusion.
1. Problem Statement about Equity in Education What is the social problem? In this section of the essay, describe the social problem of Equity in Education. Clearly describe the social problem of inequity and inequality in education. What is the extent, scope and severity of this problem? (Use your text or other scholarly sources to support your description of the problem.) Briefly summarize the negative consequences of this problem to society as a whole and/or to specific groups of people. Why is it important to understand and address this social problem? Why change the status quo?
2. Vision of Change and Goal Clarification What is the envisioned change as it relates to the social problem of Equity in Education? This section of the essay, briefly describe what things would "look like" if the social problem were effectively addressed, minimized, eliminated, or if prevention steps were taken to alleviate undesirable consequences of the problem. What are specific goals to achieve the desired change (e.g., test and implement local programs to address and reduce the problem). Who stands to gain or lose if the envisioned change is realized?
3. Historical Background and Current Conditions What contextual factors influence this social problem? This section of the essay, briefly describe two contextual factors that have influenced this social problem (e.g., historical, economic, cultural, technological factors). Explain the purpose of public education as a social institution. Use the functionalist, conflict, and symbolic interactionist perspectives to explain the importance of this social institution. Select one of the sociological theories (functionalist theory, conflict theory, symbolic interactionist theory) to briefly explain this social problem, given the contextual conditions you have identified.
4. Possible Directions to Achieve Desired Change What is needed to achieve the vision of change and address the identified social problem? This section of the essay, briefly summarize and provide a rationale for adopting one possible direction to achieve the desired change (e.g., prevention, intervention, social reform, and reconstruction), alleviating consequences. (Refer to Chapter 1 Section 1.4 Future Prospects: Solving Social Problems in Introduction to Social Problems).
5. Future Prospects: Suggested Strategies to Alleviate the Problem (200-300 words) Finally, in this section of the essay, propose two to three practical steps or strategies to address the social problem.
What are the strengths/limitations of your proposed strategies? Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the GCU Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.