by Mrs. Ritchelle Blanco
Dejolde
Master
Teacher 1
Ilocos
Norte College of Arts and Trades
Two
sociological theories that can possibly exist in any class are the Conflict
Theory and the Consensus Theory. Conflict Theory (which is traced to Karl Marx)
makes one group dominant over other groups.
Usually, the dominant group dictates the rules and expects unwavering
obedience from its members. Conflict
Theory stems from the precept that this obedience can bring forth order. Such belief/concept has been and is still
evident in communist and socialist societies.
In
the field of education, Conflict Theory can develop the students’ ability to
focus and achieve mastery of certain skills and concepts if the teacher is seen
as dominant or “ruler” over the learners. In some cases, the dominant entity
can be the school administration, or the supreme student council. This can exact
order and cut down misbehaviour, but I personally think that if Conflict Theory
is applied all throughout the learning process, order may be present but
freedom is curtailed. Later on, rebellion will rise.
The
Consensus Theory, on the other hand, gives the opportunity for real education
to flow freely. Decisions are made out of a unified agreement among leaders and
members of a group. Learning
competencies and strategies are well-planned by a conglomeration of
experts. Educational resources target
common objectives to help and guide the learners achieve their dreams. Meetings
and consultations are made to come up with acceptable school rules and
regulations. In the classroom, the teacher does not only teach, he also
facilitates. The teacher creates a
teaching-learning atmosphere that is inspiring and fulfilling. He is not
somebody to be wary of, but someone to approach for clarification and for
supplemental or remedial measures. The
Consensus Theory can make the learner feel involved. To ease myself from too
much pressure when there are discipline issues, I let my students sign
Behaviour Contracts with their parents as witnesses. At the start of the school year, the students
fill-up rubrics for study habits and behaviour.
By doing this, the students will immediately know that they, too, are
responsible for their own learning experience.
Other activities related to the subject (English) I teach are agreed
upon by the students. These are done
individually or in groups. Through the Consensus Theory, creativity is
optimized, learning is actualized.
Copyright©RitchelleBlancoDejolde 2013
