Assignment Question
For the Critical Essay on education, your objective is to investigate the topic of education more specifically by using two provided sources about higher education and by considering how those sources might apply to you and others. To be successful, you will need to review and read the sources critically and accurately, analyze them, and provide your own ideas about education, its challenges and importance, in relation to what you have learned. As you draft this essay, think about how your own experiences are connected to what you have researched in this class. In the Literacy Autobiography, we explored personal ideas about education by using Alexie’s (1997) “Superman and Me” essay as a starting point. Because we will continue to focus on the topic of education, what you wrote about in your first essay is still relevant for the Critical Essay; however, now you are digging a bit deeper by reviewing more sources and focusing on aspects specific to higher education. The sources you need to consult for this essay are provided in Canvas. You do not need to conduct any additional research on this topic. Your own experiences will complement the provided sources. ESSAY REQUIREMENTS: 3-4 (750-900 words) pages of content excluding title and reference page Five full paragraphs in the order and with the contents described below: INTRODUCTION: A good starting point is to reexamine the conclusion from the literacy autobiography. This can be retooled to meet the objective of this essay if you wish; however, you will need to add a connection to a more specific topic within higher education. Your thesis statement will reflect how your own position on or journey to higher education is connected to what you have read in the provided sources. BODY PARAGRAPH 1: Summarize the first source you have been given on education. This can either be the TEDx talk by Bernadotte (2018) or the article by Hernández Kent (2019). Begin your paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of this paragraph. Use your instructor’s feedback to support this paragraph, keeping in mind that you submitted this as process work. “Author A explains X…” Then, provide a summary of that source. BODY PARAGRAPH 2: Summarize the second source following a similar format that you used in body paragraph 1. Begin your second body paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of this body paragraph. “Author B explains X…” Then, provide a summary of this source. BODY PARAGRAPH 3: This paragraph is a reflection of your own experiences and how those experiences relate to your research. Remember, your own lives are relevant to what you have been researching, and this is the paragraph where you draw those connections. CONCLUSION: This paragraph illustrates what others can learn from your research and experiences in education. It reiterates the main point, significance, or importance of the topic. Readers leave your essay knowing this topic matters. Essay Format: Use the information below as a checklist before your submit your paper. APA formatting, including: A title page with the title of your essay (bold, in title case, starting a quarter way down the page), your name, your program and South College, ENG1201: English Composition, your professor’s name, the due date written out and not abbreviated. Page numbers beginning on the title page 12-point Times New Roman font One-inch margins and double-spacing with NO EXTRA SPACES ANYWHERE EXCEPT an extra return between the essay title and your name on the title page Use the APA template Download Use the APA template A Reference page The word “References” at the very top, centered and in bold Entries for all sources you have used (you must use the two provided on your chosen topic), in APA format, in hanging paragraphs, alphabetized by the first letter that appears in the left margin
Assignment Answer
Introduction
In today’s fast-paced world, education serves as the cornerstone of personal and societal growth. It not only equips individuals with knowledge and skills but also empowers them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond. This critical essay delves into the realm of higher education, a pivotal stage in one’s educational journey, and explores its challenges, significance, and importance. Drawing inspiration from my earlier exploration of education in my Literacy Autobiography, this essay investigates how my own experiences intersect with the insights provided by two valuable sources: the TEDx talk by Bernadotte 2018 and the article by Hernández Kent 2019. By scrutinizing these sources and reflecting on my educational journey, this essay aims to shed light on the multifaceted landscape of higher education.
Body Paragraph 1
The first source, the TEDx talk by Bernadotte (2018), presents a compelling narrative about the disparities in higher education. Bernadotte, a passionate advocate for educational equity, expounds on the challenges faced by underprivileged students in accessing and succeeding in higher education. His talk emphasizes the importance of leveling the playing field and providing equal opportunities for all. Bernadotte aptly points out that “Author A explains X,” with X being the glaring educational inequalities that persist in society.
Bernadotte’s insights resonate with my own experiences growing up in a disadvantaged community. Limited access to quality educational resources was a constant struggle for me and many of my peers. His talk reinforces my belief that higher education should be accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic background. This source fuels my determination to advocate for educational equity and inclusion.
Body Paragraph 2
The second source, an article by Hernández Kent (2019), offers a nuanced perspective on the challenges of higher education. Hernández Kent delves into the complexities of student life, discussing issues like mental health, financial burdens, and the pressure to excel. The article paints a vivid picture of the multifaceted nature of higher education, highlighting that “Author B explains X,” with X representing the myriad challenges faced by students pursuing higher education.
Hernández Kent’s article resonates with my personal experiences as a college student. The constant juggling of academic responsibilities, financial stress, and the quest for success have been prominent features of my higher education journey. This source validates my experiences and reminds me that many others are facing similar challenges.
Body Paragraph 3
This paragraph serves as a bridge between the provided sources and my own experiences. My journey through higher education has been a testament to the challenges discussed by both Bernadotte and Hernández Kent. While striving for academic excellence, I have encountered financial constraints and experienced moments of doubt and stress. However, I have also witnessed the transformative power of education in my life. It has opened doors, expanded my horizons, and instilled in me a deep sense of purpose.
My experiences align with the broader narrative of educational challenges and opportunities. They reaffirm the significance of equitable access to higher education and the need for comprehensive support systems to help students overcome obstacles. This personal reflection reinforces the notion that education is not merely a pursuit of knowledge but a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, higher education is a multifaceted landscape that presents both challenges and opportunities. The insights gleaned from Bernadotte’s TEDx talk and Hernández Kent’s article underscore the importance of addressing educational disparities and supporting students in their pursuit of higher education. My personal journey through higher education serves as a microcosm of these challenges and highlights the transformative power of education.
As we navigate the complexities of higher education, it is crucial to recognize that every student’s journey is unique. By acknowledging the hurdles and celebrating the triumphs, we can collectively work towards a more inclusive and equitable higher education system. This critical examination of higher education not only reflects my own experiences but also sheds light on the broader societal issues that require our attention and action.
References
Bernadotte, T. (2018). TEDx: Unlocking Opportunities for Underprivileged Students.
Hernández Kent, L. (2019). Navigating the Challenges of Higher Education: A Student’s Perspective.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the purpose of a critical essay on higher education?
- A critical essay on higher education aims to examine and analyze the challenges and significance of higher education. It involves critically evaluating sources and personal experiences to provide insights into the topic.
2. How do I choose relevant sources for my critical essay on higher education?
- You can start by considering sources that discuss topics related to higher education, such as access, challenges, or the importance of higher education. Ensure that your sources are peer-reviewed and published between 2018 and the present to meet the assignment requirements.
3. Can I use my own experiences in the essay?
- Yes, incorporating personal experiences is encouraged in a critical essay on higher education. Your experiences provide a unique perspective and can be used to illustrate or support the points you make about the topic.
4. What should be included in the conclusion of the critical essay on higher education?
- The conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay, reiterate the significance of the topic, and emphasize the importance of addressing challenges in higher education. It should leave the readers with a clear understanding of why the topic matters.
