Final answer:
Corrective actions serve to address and resolve issues within a system that prevent it from meeting set standards, leading to improved compliance and functionality.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of Corrective Actions is essentially to identify and rectify issues within a system, process, or policy that are deviating from desired results or standards. These actions are a form of negative feedback that seeks to bring a maladjusted system back into equilibrium or compliance with regulations. In the context of Affirmative Action policies, corrective actions are meant to address historical discrimination against women and minorities by enforcing equal employment opportunities. In educational systems, as mandated by certain laws, schools that fail to make adequate progress are also subject to corrective actions which could result in restructuring to meet established goals.
Corrective actions are necessary for continuous improvement and are a part of a strategic plan which can have stronger consequences for those not complying with standards or regulations. The essence of these actions is not just to punish but to ensure that future operations align with required standards, hence improving overall functioning, whether it is in employment, education, or public services.