PASSAGE 24

Many sociologists have argued that there is functional relationship between education and economic system. They point to the fact that mass formal education began in industrial society. They note that the expansion of the economies of industrial societies is accompanied by a corresponding expansion of their educational systems. They explain this correspondence in terms of the needs of industry for skilled and trained manpower, needs which are met by the educational system. Thus, the provision of mass elementary education in Britain in 1870 can be seen as a response to the needs of industry for a literate and numerate workforce at a time when industrial processes were becoming more complex and the demand for technical skills was steadily growing.

1. The industry needs a literate work-force because
A) its expansion needs sound learning
B) it relies heavily on expertise
C) it promotes a competitive spirit
D) its operations need intricate technical knowledge

2. The author argues that
A) formal education can be traced to industrial society
B) industrial society is responsible for expansion of education at mass level
C) industrial society gave rise to vocational education
D) industrial society changed the pattern of education

3. The observation of the sociologists is based on a study of
A) the statistical data available in a historical context
B) economic system of the 19th century
C) the correlation between industry and education in a historical context
D) growth of industry in 19th century

4. The sociologists referred to it in the passage say that the relationship between industry and elementary education was one
A) based on mutual need
B) based entirely on the need of the industry
C) based entirely on economic need
D) based on some inexplicable historical forces

5. By ‘functional relationship’ is meant
A) a short-term relationship
B) practical and utilitarian relationship
C) temporary arrangement
D) close and unbreakable relationship

Answer Key

Solution with explanation

1. Option ‘D’. Extract of the last sentence of the passage — industrial processes were becoming more complex and the demand for technical skills was steadily growing – suggests that option ‘D’ is correct. INTRICATE = detailed.

3. Option ‘D’. 19th century = 1801 t0 1900. Means 1870 is part of 19th century.

4. Option ‘B’. Any economic system is heavily based on the condition of the industry of that area.

5. Option ‘B’. UTILITARIAN = most advantages to the most people

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