The topic of whether higher education should focus more on skill-based training has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this subject has appeared with moderate frequency and is likely to continue being relevant in future tests. Let’s examine a specific question that aligns closely with this theme:
Some people think that universities should focus on providing academic skills while others believe that it is more important to provide practical job skills for future employment. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that universities should focus on academic skills
- Discuss the view that universities should focus on practical job skills
- Provide their own opinion on which approach is more important
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before stating your personal stance.
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
The debate over whether universities should prioritize academic skills or practical job skills has been ongoing in educational circles. While both approaches have their merits, I believe that a balanced combination of the two is most beneficial for students and society at large.
Proponents of academic-focused education argue that universities should primarily cultivate intellectual abilities and critical thinking. They contend that these fundamental skills form the bedrock of lifelong learning and adaptability. For instance, a student who has developed strong analytical skills can apply this ability across various fields, even as job markets evolve. Moreover, academic research often leads to groundbreaking discoveries that drive societal progress, highlighting the importance of theoretical knowledge.
On the other hand, advocates for practical skill-based training emphasize the need for job-ready graduates who can seamlessly transition into the workforce. They argue that universities should align their curricula with industry demands to reduce the skills gap. For example, internships, industry projects, and vocational training can provide students with hands-on experience and a competitive edge in the job market. This approach can lead to higher employment rates and increased economic productivity.
In my opinion, the ideal university education should strike a balance between academic and practical skills. While theoretical knowledge provides a solid foundation, practical skills ensure immediate applicability. This integrated approach would produce well-rounded graduates capable of both abstract thinking and practical problem-solving. For instance, a computer science program could combine theoretical concepts with coding bootcamps and industry internships, preparing students for both innovation and immediate employment.
In conclusion, rather than favoring one approach over the other, universities should aim to synthesize academic rigor with practical skill development. This holistic education model would not only meet the diverse needs of students but also contribute to the advancement of both knowledge and industry.
(Word count: 295)
Higher education focusing on skill-based training
Band 6-7 Essay
The question of whether universities should focus on academic skills or practical job skills is a topic of much debate. Both approaches have their advantages, and I will discuss them before giving my own opinion.
On one hand, some people believe that universities should concentrate on teaching academic skills. They argue that these skills are essential for developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. For example, learning to analyze complex theories and write academic papers can help students become better thinkers in any field. Additionally, academic skills are often transferable to many different careers, making graduates more adaptable in a changing job market.
On the other hand, others think that practical job skills are more important for future employment. They say that universities should prepare students for the real world of work. This could include things like internships, vocational training, and learning to use specific software or equipment. Supporters of this view believe that graduates with practical skills are more likely to find jobs quickly and perform well in their roles.
In my opinion, both academic and practical skills are important, but I think universities should focus slightly more on practical job skills. While academic skills are valuable, I believe that in today’s competitive job market, graduates need to be ready to start working immediately. However, I don’t think universities should completely abandon academic skills. A balance between the two, with a bit more emphasis on practical skills, would be ideal.
To conclude, while academic skills are important, I believe universities should place a greater focus on practical job skills to better prepare students for their future careers. This approach would benefit both graduates and employers.
(Word count: 268)
Band 5-6 Essay
Nowadays, many people discuss about what universities should teach students. Some think academic skills are important, while others say job skills are better. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
First, some people think universities should teach academic skills. They say these skills help students think better and solve problems. For example, when students learn difficult subjects, they become smarter. Also, academic skills can be used in many jobs, so students can change careers easily.
Second, other people believe job skills are more important. They think universities should prepare students for work. This means teaching things like how to use computers or how to work in a team. People who support this idea say it helps students get jobs faster after they graduate.
In my opinion, I think both academic and job skills are important. But I believe job skills are a little more important. This is because getting a job is very important after university. However, I don’t think universities should only teach job skills. They should teach both, but focus more on job skills.
To sum up, universities should teach both academic and job skills, but focus more on job skills. This will help students be ready for work and have good thinking skills too.
(Word count: 196)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates:
- Excellent coherence and cohesion with clear progression throughout
- Wide range of vocabulary used with flexibility and precision
- Wide range of complex sentence structures used accurately
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Clear position with relevant, extended and supported ideas
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows:
- Clear overall progression, though sometimes repetitive or lacking in coherence
- Sufficient range of vocabulary for the task, with some inaccuracies
- Mix of simple and complex sentence forms, with some errors that do not impede communication
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Relevant main ideas but some may be inadequately developed or unclear
Band 5-6 Essay:
This essay exhibits:
- Basic progression but not always clear or logical
- Limited range of vocabulary, adequate for basic communication
- Limited range of structures with some attempts at complex sentences
- Addresses the task only partially, with some irrelevance or repetition
- Presents some main ideas but these are limited and not sufficiently developed
IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Scores Comparison
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- prioritize (verb) /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/ – to decide which of a group of things are the most important so that you can deal with them first
- cultivate (verb) /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/ – to try to develop or improve something
- groundbreaking (adjective) /ˈɡraʊndbreɪkɪŋ/ – innovative; pioneering
- curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/ – the subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college
- synthesize (verb) /ˈsɪnθəsaɪz/ – to combine different ideas, influences, or objects into a new whole
- holistic (adjective) /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ – characterized by the belief that the parts of something are intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole
- vocational (adjective) /vəʊˈkeɪʃənl/ – relating to an occupation or employment
- adaptability (noun) /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being able to adjust to new conditions
- internship (noun) /ˈɪntɜːnʃɪp/ – a period of work experience offered by an organization for a limited period of time
- transferable (adjective) /trænsˈfɜːrəbl/ – able to be moved or applied to another situation
Conclusion
The topic of higher education’s focus on skill-based training versus academic skills is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might explore related themes such as:
- The role of technology in higher education and skill development
- The balance between specialized and generalist education in universities
- The impact of changing job markets on higher education curricula
To improve your writing skills, practice composing essays on these topics. Consider posting your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow learners. This active engagement will help you refine your writing technique and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.