Day 007 — Writing Task 2: Opinion Essay（大学出席義務化）

Universities around the world are increasingly debating whether attendance at lectures should be a requirement or a personal choice. While there are clear advantages to structured attendance, I strongly believe that university students should ultimately be free to decide whether to attend classes.

Those who advocate for mandatory attendance argue that it promotes academic discipline. When students are required to show up, they are more likely to stay on track with course content and avoid falling behind. Moreover, in-person lectures offer valuable opportunities for immediate feedback and discussion that recorded materials cannot fully replicate. These arguments hold some merit, particularly for students who struggle with self-discipline.

However, compelling adults to attend classes undermines their academic autonomy — an essential skill they will need throughout their careers. Universities are institutions designed not only to transmit knowledge but also to cultivate independent thinkers. If students are treated as passive recipients who must be forced into classrooms, the very purpose of higher education is diminished. Furthermore, the rise of online resources, lecture recordings, and digital libraries means students can often learn just as effectively outside the classroom. Penalising capable, self-directed learners for absence seems both paternalistic and counterproductive.

In conclusion, while mandatory attendance may provide short-term academic benefits for some students, it conflicts with the broader goals of university education — fostering autonomy, critical thinking, and lifelong learning skills. Attendance policies should be advisory rather than compulsory, with students encouraged to engage but not coerced.