The Arizona Republic published an interesting article (link above) recently discussing the beginning of shorter classes at Arizona State University. It is made clear that normal classes that schedule in the normal semester will still exist. However, the addition is now half-semester classes with longer individual classes per week. This ensures that all of the same information is learned and is just finished quicker. Students will still have the option of choosing whether or not they want to take shorter classes but the options will remain. One of the reasons ASU recommends taking shorter classes is because if you take shorter classes, it is possible to graduate in three years instead of four.
The author of this article, Anne Ryman did a great job in constructing the article. The research was correct and her use of rhetoric was effective. She made sure to present why shorter classes would not be recommended and why it would be recommended while quoting her sources rather than revealing her own opinion. This shows non-bias and trustworthy reporting.
As for the actual topic, many comments listed below in the comment selection are negative while others are positive. Personally, I believe that ASU is doing a great job by introducing shorter semester classes. This allows for students and faculty to have flexible options and consider different time frames. Also, the same amount of material is learned regardless of which type of class is chosen by the student. Because of this, ASU's move to open half-semester classes can definitely be positive and efficient for students and staff.
Nice job analyzing the rhetoric used on the article. When I wrote about it I focused on the content rather than thinking about it in a different prospective and blogging about the writer of the article. Thanks for the idea. And I could not agree more she kept the artcle as unbiased as she could.
ReplyDeleteNo worries. Glad I could help!
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