Summary of Schulfunktionen nach Fend | Warum gibt es Schule überhaupt?

Summary of Main Ideas and Concepts

The video discusses the functions of school as articulated by Helmut Fend, an Austrian professor of education, and reflects on the societal implications of schooling. The speaker outlines four primary functions of schools, emphasizing their roles beyond mere academic instruction.

Main Functions of School According to Helmut Fend

Qualification Function:
- Schools impart knowledge and skills necessary for students to earn a living and contribute to society.
- This function is linked to the economic power of states, as education is seen as a means to enhance national productivity.
- curriculum planning is essential for ensuring relevant content is taught.
Socialization Function:
- Schools serve as a secondary socialization authority, complementing the primary role of parents.
- They teach students social norms, punctuality, and respectful interaction, contributing to their integration into society.
Selection Function:
- Schools sort and select students based on performance, redistributing life chances and access to various professional opportunities.
- This function creates a hierarchy in education, affecting students' future prospects and societal roles.
- The speaker discusses the inherent contradiction of schools promoting individual development while also needing to select students for limited opportunities.
Legitimation Function:
- Schools are tasked with preserving and transmitting the existing social order, including democratic values and societal norms.
- This function raises questions about the role of education in reinforcing social inequalities.

Additional Insights

The speaker references the PISA study, which evaluates educational performance across countries, highlighting issues of social inequality in education in Germany. The video concludes with potential exam questions related to the discussed topics, encouraging deeper reflection on the role and effectiveness of schools.

Methodology and Instructions

The speaker suggests reviewing potential exam questions and answers available on their website for further study. The audience is encouraged to reflect on the implications of school functions and their societal impact.

Potential Exam Questions

Is there a particular school type that you consider most important?
Is repeating a year socially desirable?
Compare the school functions described by Fend with the school's tasks under National Socialism.
To what extent does your school fulfill its social responsibilities?
What would happen if there were no schools?

Speakers or Sources Featured

Helmut Fend, Austrian professor of education.
The speaker of the video (unnamed).

Notable Quotes

— 06:27 — « Germany is the world champion of injustice. »

— 06:56 — « If schools have the task of reproducing society, then class differences and social inequality are also part of this. »