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After a consideration of the historical development of modern educational systems as institutions that socialize, select, and allocate individuals to positions in society, the course examines institutional and organizational explanations for how learning opportunities are structured, how family, school, and community resources shape student performance, and ultimately why individuals obtain different amounts and types of educational training. Debates over the meaning and pursuit of equality of educational opportunity are considered throughout the course, as they relate to broader concerns about the fairness of society and the role of educational institutions in regulating patterns of social mobility.