Functionalist theory
The functionalist theory has the potential to make a stable and permanent society (Arato, 1994). This theory focuses on how to strengthen various elements in the society. In this regard, the functionalist theory uses institutions as principle structures or elements of a society. In order for the society to operate as a system, each element has its own functions.
The functionalist theory seeks a social order that harnesses effective functionality of society elements in a coherent manner. Education is perceived as an integral part of the society that provides citizens with socio-economic opportunities. Through education, other elements of the society gain from improved productivity, innovations and proper leadership.
However, education is dependent on funds from government institutions. From the society, the family unit in contributes funds to the government through taxes. Consequently, the government establishes development by funding critical institutions like infrastructures, education, healthcare sector and industries.
The functionalist theory advocates for a consensus between all social elements. Moreover, the functionalist theory acknowledges that failure by one element affects the whole social system. Therefore, a need to maintain a balance between society’s elements is crucial.
Common elements in Finland and Japan education systems
Finland and Japan education systems were initially established by catholic missionaries. Both countries use primary schools as part of their basic education systems. Both education systems allow the integration of culture in the curriculum. This integration is part of developing cultural responsive learning technique for teachers and students.
Finland and Japan education systems include school lunch program as national education policy. In this regard, free lunch for primary school students is a prerequisite. The national government in both Finland and Japan are involved in controlling the education system.
Finland and Japan education systems encourage professionalism among teachers. In this regard, acquiring a master’s degree in education for teachers is a professional responsibility. Finally, both education systems encourage development of culturally responsive teachers.
Japan’s education system
The local education system can learn the following elements from Japan’s education system. A focus on the general well-being of children attending school through a school lunch program and healthcare policy is necessary (Hayes, 2013). For example, Japan’s education system involves a lunch program that caters for students nutritional needs.
Japan’s education system is perceived as a human right by offering education to every child in the country. Offering education opportunity for anyone living within the country from the preschool level to the university is necessary.
The local education system has an opportunity to uphold the teaching profession as one of the highest paid careers in the country. Japan upholds the teaching career in a very noble manner. This is usually achieved through high academic standards that teachers must attain during career training. From this perspective, the local education system can ensure that teachers are only employed after undergoing a master’s degree program in education.
Education reform in Japan is a national government initiative compared to the decentralized education control in the local education system. From this perspective, the local education system should reform the education system by encouraging public participation to serve the community’s interest.
Implementation of standardized testing across a country shows how the element of equity is highly upheld. Moreover, standardized testing shows a strong sense of trust bestowed upon teachers and learning institutions. In this regard, standardization of the local education system derives public confidence.
Article review
In modern society, culturally responsive teachers are effective and improve the learning process (Brown, 2007). From the article, I have realized the essence of becoming a culturally responsive teacher. In recent times, need to have culturally responsive teachers is increasing.
This can be attributed with the increasing awareness of the diverse elements in the society. The article offers insight on what an effective teacher should possess in future. For example, a culturally responsive teacher should possess cultural knowledge of the surrounding ethnic composition.
Moreover, developing a curricula that is cultural-conscious is critical to a teacher. The article also offers insightful information on how a teacher can develop cross-cultural communication skills.
Progressive teacher
One characteristic of a progressive teacher is the focus on a student’s academic performance. The personal interest in an individual student exhibits a focused teacher who uses academic goals to promote excellence. Apart from academic goals, a progressive teacher uses other forms of assessment to evaluate teaching performance, as well as student’s achievement. Another characteristic of a progressive teacher is cultural competence.
This means that a teacher is conscious of own cultural practices, norms and values. From this perspective, the teacher learns diversity of cultural practices and values from students. This characteristic is important in developing cross-cultural communication skills required in developing interpersonal relationships with culturally-diverse students.
Finally, a progressive teacher consciousness in the socio-political matters is critical in modern times. A progressive teacher’s curriculum is based on the community’s social expectations. An effective curricular is supposed to address and offer a solution to the immediate political, social and economic issues in the society.
References
Arato, A. (1994). Civil society and political theory. Cambridge, MA: The MIT Press.
Brown, R., M. (2007). Educating all students: Creating culturally responsive teachers, classrooms, and schools. Intervention in School and Clinic, 43(1), 57-62.
Hayes, W. (2013). Consensus: Education Reform Is Possible. Lanham, MD: R&L Education.