knowledge vs. training

发贴：房挺

Some people think that university should not provide theoretical knowledge, but to give practical training beneficial to the society. Do you agree or disagree? Use your own experience and knowledge to support your idea.

1.Theoretical knowledge IS beneficial to the society.

a)         Theory study is providing powerful tools for us to deal with the world around us as well as the body within ourselves

Physiological/medical theories enable us to understand the way our body works so that we know how to combat diseases more effectively.

Economics theory helps explain such phenomena as inflation and unemployment.

Scientists, through theoretical study in gravity and by pure calculations of the orbits of planets Uranus and Neptune, predicted the existence of the ninth planet Pluto, which was later verified by observation. 

b)        Theoretical findings pave ways for more advanced scientific as well as social studies.

Take mathematics for example. Many people are under the impressions that advanced mathematical study in university is so theoretical that it does not have any practical value. However, the truth is that, ours is an age in which all areas of science are permeated more and more by methods and approaches derived from theoretical knowledge in mathematics. Even marketing, once believed to be just an art of persuading people to buy, is now becoming a scientific subject based on statistical studies of market data, which requires profound mathematical knowledge.

2.       Practical trainings are based on theoretical knowledge. / Practical trainings and theoretical studies are interrelated.

a)         Some professions require that people have solid understanding in theoretical knowledge before going into practice in those professions.

For example, to be a qualified doctor, someone will have to first learn theoretical knowledge at a medical school for a few years in various related subjects including medical science, humanities and social sciences. Then at the final years at the school, he or she will be given chance to practice as an intern in a hospital to gain practical experience. Only with a combined knowledge both in theory and in practical skills can a person truly become a successful doctor. The same goes with a number of other professions such as lawyers, psychiatrists etc.

3.       We have specialized schools such as polytechnic schools and vocational schools etc. which can provide practical trainings, for example schools specialized in teaching cooking skills. Therefore universities should focus more on theoretical knowledge.