Question Analysis:
Possible Ideas:
Legend:
SV = Supporting Viewpoint
OV = Opposing Viewpoint
Sample Paragraphs:
(OV1)
In the academic field, detractors of my stand may argue that intellectual skills are more important than practical ability as in order for individuals to attain a degree and further advance their study, they are required to demonstrate a certain level of intellect and knowledge regarding their specific field of interest. Indeed, I acknowledge that the greater the intellect displayed, the more esteemed individuals are perceived in their specialised field. Conversely, having great practical ability is not as crucial since most of the work done in the academic field is theoretical-driven or research-based and is more cerebral in nature. For example, Professor Joseph Sung, a distinguished professor in Nanyang Technological University (NTU), was awarded the Distinguished University Professor title in 2021. It is the highest honour given to a faculty member at NTU in recognition for their scholarly and scientific achievements in research. Professor Sung is mostly well-known for his research in gastroenterology, gut microbiome and digestive disease and has been awarded many awards for his leadership and research in these fields. He is just one of the many professors highly regarded for their contributions and impact made in their respective field of interests. As observed, within the academic and research field, displaying a high level of intellect is one of the factors to being recognised in the field. This skill set is definitely more greatly prioritised and emphasised than possessing pure practical ability. Therefore, whilst I am of the opinion that both practical ability and intellectual skills are important, I acknowledge the viewpoint that in certain knowledge-driven fields in Singapore, greater priority is given to intellectual skills than practical ability.
(SV1)
On the other hand, it is important to not neglect the importance of practical ability. In fact, I opine that both are crucial in order to excel and this is seen in various fields in technology. Undeniably, in an increasingly technology-driven world, it is crucial to understand the foundational concepts behind computer sciences and at the same time, have sufficient experience developing technologies based on learnt concepts. As a mobile application developer for instance, it is important to understand programming language and apply learnt knowledge to develop useful phone applications that help solve problems. Popular mobile phone applications (apps) developed by Singaporeans include Burpple, which is an app designed for hungry users to discover local restaurants by location, price level and type of cuisine. The app includes Burpple Beyond, a paid membership for users to enjoy one-for-one deals and other savings at partner restaurants, cafes and bars. Another successful app is an e-commerce app called Carousell, which was developed by four graduates from Ngee Ann Polytechnic in 2012. The app allows consumers to buy and sell their unused or second-hand goods at zero to low cost. These apps are successful not only because the developers know programming languages, but also because they display great practical ability in terms of constantly improving the app and turning it into a profit-making business venture. Without leveraging on both relevant knowledge in the field and the direct experience working on creating tools based on specialised knowledge, successful products that can positively impact society would not have been developed. Therefore, I argue that both intellectual skills and practical ability are important across diverse fields.
Links for Reference:
https://www.ntu.edu.sg/about-us/leadership-organisation/distinguished-faculty
https://trending.sg/blog/useful-mobile-apps-made-by-singaporeans-for-singaporeans
