Outline
Thesis Statement : While attending in-person classes can be beneficial for some students, it should not be mandatory for achieving a passing grade because it can restrict individual learning styles, limit accessibility for some students, and neglect the potential benefits of technology-based learning.
I. Introduction
- Briefly discuss the importance of learning before graduation
- Introduce the topic of mandatory in-person attendance policies
II. Restriction of individual learning styles
- Explain how this policy can negatively affect students with different learning styles
- Provide an example of a student who learns better through self-study
III. Accessibility limitations
- Discuss how mandatory in-person attendance can create barriers for students with disabilities or those who live far from campus
- Provide an example of a student who is unable to attend in-person classes due to accessibility issues
IV. Potential benefits of technology-based learning
- Explain how virtual classes and online resources can enhance learning experience for some students
- Provide an example of a student who benefits from utilizing online resources
V. Counterargument
- Acknowledge the potential benefits of in-person attendance policies, such as building a sense of community and accountability
VI. Conclusion
- Reiterate the thesis statement
- Summarize the main points of the argument
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Model Essay
Before graduation, it is crucial for students to learn as much as possible. Consequently, some universities have established policies mandating that students attend all of their classes in-person to achieve a passing grade. Despite the benefits of attending physical classes, I believe that it should not be compulsory for students. Mandatory attendance policies can restrict individual learning styles, limit accessibility for some students and neglect the potential benefits of technology-based learning.
For some students, the benefits of in-person classes can be limited due to their unique learning styles. Everyone learns differently, and for some students, attending classes in-person does not work best. Self-study, group study, or other teaching approaches can be much more effective. Nonetheless, students who are required to attend classes in-person may find themselves missing out on opportunities to learn in alternative ways.
In addition, mandatory in-person attendance policies can be a barrier to students with disabilities or who live far from campus. The policy may assume that all students have the same capabilities and privileges to attend a physical class. This can be an issue for students who have accessibility problems or who live in remote areas. For instance, a student with chronic back pain may not be able to sit in the classroom for extended periods, and a student who resides in a different state or country might not be able to afford the expense necessary to attend classes in-person.
Moreover, these policies can neglect the potential benefits of technology-based learning. Online resources and other e-learning courses can provide opportunities for students to access learning materials remotely. Many students benefit from getting access to online courses, virtual conversations, and other resources, which enables them to learn at their own pace and gives them the space to explore diverse topics and subjects.
While attendance policies can foster a sense of community among students, these benefits can be a trade-off for individualized learning. Instead of providing students with a one-size-fits-all approach, educators should be accommodating to individual needs.
In summary, mandatory in-person attendance policies can negatively affect students’ learning styles, limit accessibility, and neglect the benefits of technology-based learning. Therefore, non-physical learning alternatives should be implemented to allow students with individual needs to study efficiently and effectively.