1. Expansion of Access to Education: Mass society, characterized by large urban populations and increased industrialization, necessitated a more educated workforce. This led to a dramatic expansion of educational systems, moving beyond elite schooling to encompass a much larger percentage of the population. Compulsory education laws were enacted in many countries, making primary and, later, secondary education compulsory for all children, regardless of social class or background.
2. Standardization of Curriculum and Instruction: Educating vast numbers of students efficiently required standardization. This led to the development of standardized curricula, textbooks, and teaching methods. While aiming for efficiency and equity, this process also led to criticisms about the stifling of individual creativity and the imposition of a homogenous culture.
3. Rise of Public Schools: The growth of mass society fostered the development of publicly funded schools, replacing or supplementing private institutions. Public schools became the primary vehicle for educating the masses, offering a more egalitarian (though not always equal in reality) access to education compared to previous systems.
4. Emphasis on Vocational Training: Industrial societies needed a workforce with specific skills. This resulted in an increased emphasis on vocational training and technical education within the school system, preparing students for specific jobs in factories, industries, and burgeoning service sectors.
5. Use of Education for Social Control: Governments and other powerful institutions saw education as a tool for social control and assimilation. Schools were tasked with instilling patriotism, obedience to authority, and conformity to societal norms. This aspect often clashed with desires for individual expression and critical thinking.
6. Development of New Educational Technologies and Media: The need to educate large populations efficiently led to innovations in educational technologies, including the mass production of textbooks, the development of new teaching methods (like the lecture format), and later, the use of film and radio in classrooms.
7. Rise of Mass Media's Influence: Mass media, such as newspapers, magazines, and later radio and television, began to play a significant role in shaping educational discourse, disseminating information, and influencing public opinion about education.
8. Increased Importance of Literacy: Mass society required a literate population for various reasons – from reading instructions in factories to participating in a democratic society. This put even more emphasis on literacy education.
However, it's important to note that the influence of mass society on education wasn't uniformly positive. While it expanded access, it also led to issues of inequity, standardization that stifled creativity, and the use of education for social control. The legacy of mass society on education is a complex and ongoing topic of debate.