Politics of Difference and the Case of School Uniforms, Research Paper Example

Introduction

In Samantha Deane’s article “Dressing Diversity: Politics of Difference and the Case of School Uniforms” and the Los Angeles Unified School District’s policy on student dress code, there are opposing views on using school uniforms in public schools (Deane, pp. 111-120). While Deane argues that school uniforms teach children to see sameness instead of recognizing differences, according to the Los Angeles Unified School District, appropriate pupil attire helps promote an effective educational setting (Deane, pp. 111-120). A middle-ground solution to this debate is to allow students to have some say in their dress code while still adhering to the school’s general guidelines.

Body Paragraphs

For many years, the adoption of school clothes in public institutions has been debated. Advocates of school attire contend that they foster a more secure environment, reduce disruptive behavior, and fosters respect for others (Deane, pp. 111-120). The Pitt County policy on school uniforms states that the implementation of school uniforms will “help to maintain high academic standards” (Deane, pp. 111-120). Opponents of school uniforms, however, argue that they limit students’ freedom to express themselves and do not inherently enhance academic performance.

According to Samantha Deane’s article, school uniforms teach children to disregard differences and see sameness (Deane, pp. 111-120). Deane argues that the assumption that a child’s capacity to confront difference is unimportant is reinforced by uniform policies (Deane, pp. 111-120). However, school uniforms could be made more inclusive by allowing students to choose certain aspects of their uniform, such as the color of their shirt or pants. Students can express their individuality while adhering to the school’s dress code guidelines.

While both sides of the debate have valid points, a middle-ground solution could be reached by allowing students to have some say in their dress code while still adhering to the school’s general guidelines. This could be achieved by creating a dress code committee composed of students, parents, and teachers to make decisions regarding the school’s dress code policy. This committee could ensure that the dress code guidelines are inclusive and allow for some individuality while still promoting a safe and productive learning environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a middle-ground solution to the school uniform debate is to allow students to have some say in their dress code while still adhering to the school’s general guidelines. This solution considers the concerns of both supporters and opponents of school uniforms while promoting a safe and inclusive learning environment. By creating a dress code committee composed of students, parents, and teachers, the school can ensure that the guidelines are inclusive and allow for some individuality while promoting a safe and productive learning environment.

Reflection Questions

How does the Rogerian model of argument help you better understand the topic being discussed? Why is it a good practice to acknowledge both sides of the argument?

The Rogerian argument model helps better understand the topic being discussed by presenting both sides of the debate respectfully and objectively. Acknowledging both sides of the argument is a good practice because it shows that one has taken the time to consider different perspectives and is open to compromise. It also helps build credibility with the audience by showing that one is knowledgeable about the issue.

How might the Rogerian approach help you gain insight into your argumentative essay?

The Rogerian approach can help gain insight into one’s argumentative essay by providing a framework for presenting both sides of the argument and reaching a middle-ground solution. By acknowledging the strengths and weaknesses of both sides, one can develop a more nuanced and convincing argument that considers the concerns of all stakeholders involved. This approach can also build empathy and understanding with the audience by showing that one has considered different perspectives and is open to compromise.

Work Cited

Deane, Samantha. “Dressing Diversity: Politics of Difference and the Case of School Uniforms.” Philosophical Studies in Education 46 (2015): 111-120.