Opinions are divided into whether tertiary education should concentrate on vocational skills or academic subjects. In this essay, I will evaluate both views before presenting my own view that both theoretical and practical knowledge should be taught in a balanced way.
On the one hand, academic study brings a wide range of benefits that should not be overlooked. The foremost advantage is that this study creates a solid foundation of mandatory knowledge for learners, thereby cementing their knowledge before studying further practical skills. For example, doctors have to learn many theoretical biological subjects in order to have sustainable cornerstones before experimenting and caring on patient’s bodies. Additionally, academic study facilitates students developing critical thinking, teamwork and communication skills through an energetic environment, which has a variety of debates and group presentations. These skills play an integral part in the long-term personal development and career progress in the future.
On the other hand, vocational skills also play an indispensable role in seeking appropriate jobs for students. In the modern labour market, many businesses and employers require their employees to have a vocational degree, relating to hands-on training and industry-specific skills. To adapt to the demand of the labour market, therefore, many colleges create hands-on subjects to help their students to enhance their practical skills and reduce their unemployment rate. For example, many universities tend to organize job festivals to give special chances to offer internship positions in prestigious companies for their graduates. This enables them to make a faster transition from study to work.
In conclusion, both studies offer numerous benefits in certain degrees. As a result, the best approach is that tertiary education should be combined with both academic and employment skills for their pupils. This combination assists them in promoting their holistic personal development and enhancing their job opportunities in the fluctuating labour market.