12.1 Describe the historical and contemporary role of education in society.

12.2 Apply conflict, functionalist, and symbolic interactionist theoretical perspectives to the institution of education.

12.3 Explain how education may function both to reduce and reproduce social inequalities.

12.4 Discuss key issues in U.S. higher education, including the relationship between education and income potential, the debate over college internships, and the college dropout phenomenon.

12.5 Learn about the importance of higher education globally and the growth of U.S. student contact with others from around the world.