You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
A number of university courses require students to undertake a period of unpaid work at art institution or organization as part of their programme. What are the advantages and disadvantages?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge.
Write at least 250 words.
REPORTED ON 06 AUGUST, 2022
It is common to see that many tertiary courses make it mandatory for students to take up voluntary work at art institutions. As this move has obvious advantages, it has to be realised that it raises some concerns.
The most tangible advantage of this initiative is that the students would get the privilege of experiencing a real work situation, and learn how the theoretical skills they have learned at classrooms can be applied in a practical environment. To be precise, many students lack the practical knowledge about their respective subjects at their universities, and may require internships or adaptation courses once they complete their studies, before entering into a serious career. When this opportunity is integrated in their course duration, it would benefit a great number of students. In addition, they would learn qualities which are needed in a real work situation, such as time management, communication and problem-solving skills.
Turning to the flip side of this move, the worst is the higher chances of distractions, which may directly affect the productivity of a student. To be clearer, most students find it difficult to co-ordinate both their studies and work, as they are inexperienced. In many cases, they would not get involved in the work they do seriously, and the time they spend would be a total waste. On the other hand, some would be seriously getting involved in the work, and would fail to concentrate on their studies. The ultimate results would be either a discontinuation of studies or an extended course span.
To conclude, it is clear that when university students are involved in some unpaid work related to their study, it would be highly beneficial. At the same time, if not utilized properly, it does have serious drawbacks.
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