Equality and Achievement: An Introduction to the Sociology of Education, CourseSmart eTextbook, 2nd Edition

For Sociology of Education or Social Foundations of Education courses.

This concise introduction to the sociology of education demonstrates that differences between and within schools, homes, and peer groups are related in systematic ways to differences in educational outcomes. Employing both empirical data and important theoretical concepts, it explores the impact of school, family, and a wide range of other factors on academic success in terms of equality and achievements. Extensive coverage of thought-provoking topics, such as the black/white test score gap, school and class size, tracking, reform and restructuring, youth cultures, parental involvement, family structure, summer learning, school finance, school effectiveness, and teacher quality.

1. Equality and Achievement in Education.


2. Methodological Issues.


3. Differences Between Homes.


4. Differences Between Schools: The Early Studies.


5. Differences Between Schools: The Current Studies.


6. Differences Within Schools.


7. Peer Group Differences.


8. Maximizing Achievement and Equality.