by Yuvi - November 15, 2020

Explain school as social institute and state functions and activities

Introduction

In ancient times, the family and religious institutions were social agencies of education. As knowledge advanced and society grew complex, the school was introduced as a formal social agency of education.

Definitions

Socialization – As per Guskin & Guskin – “Socialization is the process by which an individual learns the behaviors, the values, and the expectations of others that enable him to take on particular roles in society.”.
School – As per Dewey – “The school is a special environment where a certain quality of life and certain types of activities and occupations are provided with the object of securing a child’s development along desirable lines.”.

School as a social institute

• A school is a social institution that conserves and transmits culture to the younger generation..
• It trains and socializes the individual and thus serves societal needs..
• Moulds children into well balanced citizens who are physically strong, mentally alert, emotionally stable, culturally sound and socially efficient..
• Children acquire knowledge, skills and dispositions that make them able members of society..
• It is the place where the destiny of the nation is shaped.

Functions

Physical Development –

Physical activities direct the child’s energy into constructive work. .
Eg. – Swimming, aerobics, yoga, karate, athletics, health club, cricket, etc..

Mental Development –

Develops the child’s mental and intellectual faculties by harnessing his reasoning power, curiosity, creativity and critical outlook. .
Eg. – Debate, elocutions, Quiz, fine arts, essays.

Emotional development –

Feelings of love co-operation, honesty, loyalty, respect, etc., controlling his emotions for balanced behavior. .
Eg. – opportunities to voice opinions, healthy and caring atmosphere in classrooms, sex education, etc..

Social development –

Makes the child capable for social progress through interactions and adjustment..
Eg. – awareness, programmes, blood donations camps, team/group work, leadership activities, interaction with opposite sex, social service, etc..

Moral development –

High moral fibre is weaved into their personality through value education. .
Eg. Protecting the environment, obeying traffic rules, respect for elders, etc..

Spiritual development –

Promotes the importance of prayer and spiritualism..
Eg. – prayers, social service activities etc..

Vocational development –

Occupational knowledge and skills..
Eg. – Gardening, Cooking, embroidery, carpentry, etc..

National integration and cultural heritage development –

Pride, honour, love and patriotism for the nation and its people..
Eg. – celebration of various days, festivals, folk tales, biographies of national heroes, etc.

Social / community activities of school

• Celebrating various festivals and national days..
• Making the school a recreational, social and cultural centre..
• Parent Teacher Association and Parents’ Day..
• Adult education classes..
• Educational conferences..
• Fun-fairs, science exhibitions for community..
• Provide use of school library to community members..
• Utilizing expert advice of eminent member of the community – leaders, educationists, reformists, social activists, environmentalists, industrialists, sports personalities, etc..
• Enlisting cooperation of parents for various community activities..