Conflict theorists argue that in order to succeed in school, students must learn both the official and the hidden curriculum.

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Conflict theorists argue that the official curriculum teaches students the basic skills they need to succeed academically, but the hidden curriculum teaches them the values, beliefs, and behaviors that are necessary for success in the larger society. For example, the hidden curriculum reinforces social inequality by teaching students to accept their place in the social hierarchy and to conform to the dominant culture's norms and values. Therefore, in order to succeed in school and in life, students must learn both the official and the hidden curriculum. Conflict theorists believe that in order to succeed in school, students must not only learn the official curriculum (such as math, science, and literature) but also the hidden curriculum (such as social norms, values, and expectations). The hidden curriculum is often the unspoken and implicit rules that underlie the official curriculum and are typically linked to the dominant culture's beliefs and practices. Conflict theorists argue that the hidden curriculum can reinforce social inequalities and hinder the success of students from marginalized backgrounds.

Conflict Theorists Argue That in Order to Succeed in School