GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 116
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people think that all university students should study whatever they like. Others believe that they should only be allowed to study subjects that will be useful in the future, such as those related to science and technology.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
Academicians are split on the issue that how much freedom pupils should be given in choosing university courses. While many opine that students ought to study science and technology-related subjects, which pave the way for their future careers, I subscribe to the view that learners should be given complete liberty to select the subject they love and feel interested in.
On the one hand, there is a myriad of reasons why tertiary students ought to only study subjects that will prove useful in the future. The most compelling reason is that this will provide students with countless windows of opportunity to seek a prestigious job after completing graduation. For instance, in the USA, graduates can earn a handsome salary if they work as a scientist or programmers. Apart from it, emphasizing science and technology studies in universities will accelerate the pace of technological innovations, thereby stimulating economic growth in the long run.
On the other hand, I would readily concur with the notion of letting adult students select whatever subjects they like as it will help students attain brilliant academic performance when they have a passion for learning. Take my friend Robin as an example; instead of selecting science and technology, he just took a business administration course and has managed to carve a niche for himself as a specialist in the Human Resource Management arena. Besides, offering a broad range of courses at the tertiary level is crucial for any society. A case in point is Social Science which is of utmost importance in areas like social care, business, and the justice system, to mention but a few.
To conclude, it seems reasonable to assume that while science and technology are no doubt important, the importance of other subjects should not be ignored as these subjects also play a vital role in individual life and society as a whole. So tertiary students should be given the freedom to learn subjects they feel passionate about.
Model Answer 2:
Education plays a crucial role in shaping individuals’ knowledge, skills, and future prospects. The question of whether university students should have the freedom to study subjects of their choice or be restricted to practical and job-oriented disciplines is a topic of hot debate. This essay will discuss both viewpoints and present arguments in favour of allowing students to study whatever they like.
Proponents of allowing university students to study subjects of their choice argue that it fosters passion, motivation, and personal growth. When students have the freedom to pursue their interests, they are more likely to be engaged and enthusiastic about their studies. This intrinsic motivation can lead to deeper learning and the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. For instance, a student with a passion for history may excel in their chosen field, contributing to research and scholarship that expands our understanding of the past. If we force her to study chemistry, for example, she may end up dropping out of her major.
Moreover, studying diverse subjects cultivates well-rounded individuals with a broad range of knowledge and perspectives. A balanced education that includes humanities, arts, and social sciences alongside science and technology provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the world. This interdisciplinary approach encourages creativity, empathy, and the ability to think beyond conventional boundaries. It also equips students with transferable skills, such as effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability, which are highly valued in today’s rapidly changing job market. Furthermore, the notion that students should only focus on science and technology-related subjects neglects the importance of other disciplines in society. Fields such as literature, philosophy, and the arts contribute to cultural enrichment, social cohesion, and personal well-being. Restricting students to practical subjects may limit their intellectual development and neglect the holistic education necessary for a thriving society.
In conclusion, while arguments can be made for the practicality of studying subjects related to science and technology, it is crucial to recognize the benefits of allowing university students to study whatever they like. By providing students with the freedom to explore a diverse range of subjects, we empower them to become lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and contributors to society.