The topic of whether college degrees should guarantee job placement has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on past trends and current educational debates, this subject is likely to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a related question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that universities should provide graduates with the knowledge and skills needed in the workplace. Others think that the true function of a university should be to give access to knowledge for its own sake, regardless of whether the course is useful to an employer. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to discuss two contrasting views on the purpose of university education:
- Universities should focus on providing practical skills for employment.
- Universities should prioritize knowledge acquisition regardless of job market demands.
Candidates must explore both perspectives and provide their own opinion on the matter.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8)
Universities play a crucial role in shaping the future of individuals and society as a whole. While some argue that these institutions should prioritize equipping students with job-ready skills, others contend that the primary function of higher education should be the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake. In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines both practical skills and theoretical knowledge is ideal.
Those who advocate for universities to focus on workplace skills argue that the primary goal of higher education is to prepare students for successful careers. In today’s competitive job market, employers often seek graduates who can contribute immediately to their organizations. By aligning curricula with industry needs, universities can enhance their students’ employability and ensure a smoother transition from academia to the professional world. For instance, internship programs and industry-specific courses can provide students with valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities.
On the other hand, proponents of knowledge acquisition for its own sake argue that universities should not be reduced to mere vocational training centers. They believe that the true value of higher education lies in fostering critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and a broad understanding of the world. This perspective emphasizes the importance of liberal arts education and interdisciplinary studies, which can nurture well-rounded individuals capable of adapting to various challenges in life, not just in their careers. For example, studying philosophy or literature may not directly lead to a specific job, but it can enhance one’s analytical and communication skills, which are valuable in many professions.
In my view, the ideal approach is to strike a balance between these two perspectives. Universities should strive to provide a foundation of theoretical knowledge while also incorporating practical skills relevant to the job market. This balanced approach can produce graduates who are not only employable but also capable of contributing to society in meaningful ways beyond their immediate career paths. For instance, a computer science program could include both abstract theoretical concepts and practical coding projects, thereby preparing students for both immediate employment and long-term innovation in the field.
In conclusion, while it is important for universities to consider the employability of their graduates, they should not lose sight of their fundamental role as centers of knowledge and intellectual growth. By combining practical skills with a strong theoretical foundation, universities can best serve their students and society at large.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 7)
The purpose of university education has been a topic of debate for many years. Some people think universities should focus on preparing students for the job market, while others believe they should provide knowledge regardless of its practical application. This essay will discuss both views and present my opinion on the matter.
Those who support job-oriented education argue that universities should equip students with skills needed in the workplace. They believe this approach will help graduates find employment more easily and contribute to the economy. For example, engineering programs could include internships or projects with local companies to give students practical experience. This view emphasizes the importance of aligning education with market demands.
On the other hand, supporters of knowledge for its own sake argue that universities should focus on broadening students’ minds and encouraging critical thinking. They believe that the true value of education lies in personal growth and intellectual development, rather than just job preparation. For instance, studying philosophy or literature may not lead directly to a specific career, but it can enhance analytical and communication skills that are valuable in many fields.
In my opinion, universities should strive for a balance between these two approaches. While it is important to consider employability, the primary goal of higher education should be to develop well-rounded individuals who can adapt to various challenges in life and work. Universities could achieve this by offering a mix of theoretical courses and practical training, allowing students to gain both in-depth knowledge and job-related skills.
In conclusion, the ideal university education should combine elements of both views. By providing a strong foundation of knowledge and critical thinking skills, along with opportunities for practical application, universities can best prepare students for success in their careers and personal lives.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 6)
Nowadays, there is a debate about what universities should teach students. Some people think universities should teach skills for jobs, while others believe they should give knowledge even if it’s not useful for work. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
First, many people say universities should teach things that help students get jobs. They think this is important because it’s hard to find work after graduation. For example, if someone studies computer science, they should learn how to make websites or apps that companies need. This can help them find a job quickly after finishing university.
However, other people think universities should teach knowledge that might not be directly useful for jobs. They believe education is about learning new things and becoming smarter, not just about getting a job. For instance, studying history or art may not lead to a specific job, but it can make people think better and understand the world more.
In my opinion, I think universities should do both things. They should teach some skills that help students find jobs, but also give them knowledge that makes them smarter and more creative. This way, students can be ready for work but also be able to solve problems and have new ideas.
To conclude, I believe universities should give students both practical skills for jobs and knowledge for its own sake. This will help students be successful in their careers and also in their personal lives.
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8 Essay:
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout.
- Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary used with flexibility and precision.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy.
Band 7 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses all parts of the task, though some aspects are more fully covered than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Logically organized ideas with clear overall progression.
- Lexical Resource: Sufficient range of vocabulary for the task, with some less common items used.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Variety of complex structures used, generally error-free.
Band 6 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally arranged coherently, with some progression.
- Lexical Resource: Adequate range of vocabulary for the task, with some attempts at less common items.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Mix of simple and complex sentence forms, with some errors that do not impede communication.
Key Vocabulary
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Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/ – The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college.
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Employability (noun) /ɪmˌplɔɪəˈbɪləti/ – The quality of being suitable for paid work.
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Vocational (adjective) /vəʊˈkeɪʃənl/ – Relating to an occupation or employment.
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Interdisciplinary (adjective) /ˌɪntədɪsəˈplɪnəri/ – Relating to more than one branch of knowledge.
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Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – The action or process of innovating; introducing new ideas or methods.
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Critical thinking (noun phrase) /ˈkrɪtɪkl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ – The objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment.
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Adaptability (noun) /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ – The quality of being able to adjust to new conditions.
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Theoretical (adjective) /θɪəˈretɪkl/ – Concerned with or involving the theory of a subject or area of study rather than its practical application.
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Practical (adjective) /ˈpræktɪkl/ – Concerned with the actual doing or use of something rather than with theory and ideas.
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Well-rounded (adjective) /ˌwel ˈraʊndɪd/ – Having a personality that is fully developed in all aspects.
In conclusion, the debate over whether college degrees should guarantee job placement remains a relevant and complex issue in higher education. As demonstrated by the sample essays, there are valid arguments for both focusing on practical skills and pursuing knowledge for its own sake. Future IELTS candidates should be prepared to discuss this topic from various angles, considering the needs of students, employers, and society at large.
To further practice your writing skills, try composing your own essay on this topic or a related one, such as “Should universities be responsible for finding employment for their graduates?” Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with other learners. Remember to apply the vocabulary and structures demonstrated in the sample essays to enhance your writing.