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Sociologist Julian Chen examined the 'hidden curriculum' in secondary schools, noting that the physical layout of classrooms often reinforces hierarchical social structures. Chen found that rows of desks facing a central podium do not simply facilitate sightlines; they condition students to accept a passive role in the acquisition of knowledge, independent of the actual instructional content delivered.
Which choice best states the main idea of the text?
- Chen argues that the instructional content of a lesson is more influential than the classroom's layout in conditioning student behavior.
- Chen suggests that the spatial organization of classrooms serves to socialize students into specific roles regarding authority and learning.
- The physical arrangement of a classroom is the sole factor determining whether a student will adopt a passive or active role in learning.
- Desks arranged in rows facing a central podium are a common feature of classroom layouts in secondary education.
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