ASSIGNMENT: As you learned in this unit, a Rogerian argument is one that presents two sides of a debate and argues for a solution that will satisfy both sides. Given two articles presenting opposing sides of an issue (mandatory uniforms in schools), construct your own 2-3 page Rogerian argument essay in which you attempt to arrive at a workable solution or “middle ground.”

A.) Assignment Guidelines
DIRECTIONS: Refer to the list below throughout the writing process. Do not submit your Touchstone until it meets these guidelines.

1. Summary of Positions
❒ Have you briefly introduced the author and publication context (year, journal, etc.) of Article 1?
❒ Have you included a summary of the stance presented in Article 1?
❒ Have you briefly introduced the author and publication context (year, journal, etc.) of Article 2?
❒ Have you included a summary of the stance presented Article 2?
2. Thesis/Claim
❒ Does you claim address both sides of the issue, including specific points raised in the articles?
❒ Does your claim present a clear, workable solution that could be viewed as a “middle ground” between the two sides?
3. Analysis
❒ Have you backed up your claim using facts from both sides of the argument?
❒ When using direct quotations, have you supplemented them with your own explanation of their relevance?
4. Reflection
❒ Have you answered all reflection questions thoughtfully and included insights, observations, and/or examples in all responses?
❒ Are your answers included on a separate page below the main assignment?

B.) DIRECTIONS: Below your assignment, include answers to all of the following reflection questions.

How does the Rogerian model of argument help you better understand the topic that’s being discussed? Why is it a good practice to acknowledge both sides of the argument? (3-4 sentences)
Will you use the Rogerian Approach in your own argumentative essay? Why or why not? (2-3 sentences)

C.) Requirements
The following requirements must be met for your submission to be graded:

Composition must be 2-3 pages (approximately 500-750 words).
Double-space the composition and use one-inch margins.
Use a readable 12-point font.
All writing must be appropriate for an academic context.
Composition must be original and written for this assignment.
Plagiarism of any kind is strictly prohibited.
Submission must include your name, the name of the course, the date, and the title of your composition.
Include all of the assignment components in a single file.
Acceptable file formats include .doc and .docx.

ANSWER

Dressing Diversity: Politics of Difference and the Case of School Uniforms

The article under analysis and evaluation is “Dressing Diversity: Politics of Difference and the Case of School Uniforms” authored by Samantha Deane and published in 2015 through the Journal of Philosophical Studies in Education Volume 46. In the article, Deane analyzes the school uniform policies adopted in schools and social justice theories. In the article, she disapproves the idea of having school uniforms in schools. To achieve a conclusive argument, Deana shapes and supports her argument in three sections (Deane, 2015). In the first section, she discusses the social injustices related to the presence of school uniforms. She argues that school uniforms and related policies presume that when tackling unfamiliar people or strangers, sameness rather than the recognition of difference is achieved. However, by wearing uniforms, Deane believes it does not solve any problems such as those policymakers perceive, including minimizing disruptive behavior or eliminating socioeconomic tensions; instead, it is a misconception.

In the second section, Deane argues that schools are arenas and places children are confronted with others’ humanity. She further adds that this fails to allow students to effectively manage and handle the differences and self-humiliation, but they grow while learning through a diversified milieu. In the final section, Deane concludes by explaining the meaning of resituating schools (Deane, 2015). She argues that students should not be restrained or controlled from expressing themselves as individuals as they learn through the interaction with people in that same environment. She believes that students and children that surround themselves with different people and embrace diversity thrive as individuals.

The debate on school uniforms in schools keeps growing due to the increased popularity of school uniforms. Proponents argue that uniforms bring a sense of belonging, inclusivity, and as Deane states, “minimize disruptive behavior, remove socioeconomic tension, and maintain high academic standards.” (Deane, 2015). Opponents have counter views, such as hindering the student’s expression of freedom and reducing creativity expressed through clothing. Finding common ground and mutual understanding is critical for the benefit of schools, students, and policymakers as they develop preceding school uniform policies. School uniforms should be integrated into schools, as they promote inclusivity and conformity. Moreover, “School uniforms will help minimize disruptive behavior, promote respect for oneself and others, build school/community spirit, and, more significantly, help to maintain high academic standards.” (Deane, 2015). With uniforms, a sense of school pride and inclusiveness is attained. This way, the respect of students is maximized. A sense of belonging and spirit helps build a community of students who help each other, stand together, and represent a valuable school community (ProCon.org, 2020).

The Rogerian approach of argument presents an arena where both sides negotiate to find common ground and reach a consensus. Using this approach helps a reader understand opposing opinions, laying out possible manners and ways to solve a debate or problem. It can be through compromise or developing alternative solutions, which maximizes objectivity in decision-making, minimizing possible subjectivity that may impede effective decision-making. In debates such as for and against school uniforms, understanding views and arguments from both sides expand the involved parties’ minds, exploring the diverse ideas outlined and providing alternatives. This increases knowledge and understanding of the topic, making it a good practice to acknowledge both sides of an argument. When researching problems and particular topics, objectivity is crucial, as it helps a reader find and discover the best explanation and solution. Objectivity allows the integration of evidence, through which personal biases and emotions are discounted. Hence, through the Rogerian model of arguments, objectivity is attained, making it more relevant and plausible to use in my argumentative essays.

References

Deane, S. (2015). Dressing Diversity: Politics of Difference and the Case of School Uniforms. PHILOSOPHICAL STUDIES IN EDUCATION, Vol 46, pp: 112-120.

ProCon.org. (2020, January 1). Should Students Have to Wear School Uniforms? Retrieved from ProCon.org: https://school-uniforms.procon.org/