Discuss the contributions of Emile Durkheim (1858–1917) to sociology of education.

Durkheim was a functionalist sociologist, which means he looked at the ways the different parts of society worked together to create balance and stability. He believed that education served two main functions in society. One was to create a sense of belonging and social connectedness among children. By learning the shared history and values of the society through education, children would become committed to the protection and perpetuation of the society. Another main function of education, according to Durkheim, was to give children the skills they would need as adults to contribute to the society. In a modern society, the division of labor meant that children must learn specific skills that contribute to the overall wellbeing and functioning of the society. Durkheim believed that by learning these skills and contributing to the society, children would develop a sense of belonging and commitment to the society.
Source:
Ottaway, A.K.C. "The Educational Sociology of Émile Durkheim." The British Journal of Sociology, Vol. 6, No. 3 (Sep., 1955), 213-227.