A comprehensive, theoretically balanced overview of the sociology of education that features a wealth of original readings by noted scholars Offering a wide array of theoretical perspectives and methods, a broad range of resources, and both classic and contemporary studies, this fully updated Fourth Edition uses the open systems approach to provide readers with a framework for understanding and analyzing the book#xE2;#xAC;"s disparate topics. Edited by Jeanne H. Ballantine and Joan Z. Spade, both of whom actively teach Sociology of Education courses, this text includes dozens of readable articles that illustrate major concepts and theoretical perspectives in the field. New to the Fourth Edition: + Twenty-four new articles by early and contemporary noted scholars have been added. + Six articles have been revised and updated to reflect new perspectives and research. + A new chapter on the research methods used to study education connects the methodological design to particular readings. Features: + Classic and contemporary readings are drawn from a wide range of sources, including books, journals, scientific studies and reports, and commentaries. + Introductions to each chapter provide a holistic view of the field and demonstrate the interrelationships between the various issues in education. + Remarks and questions precede each article to guide students and to demonstrate the article#xE2;#xAC;"s connection to other readings. + Conclusions to each part include suggested projects for continued exploration.