David Bartholomae Inventing The University Summary Explained
Introduction In his influential essay “Inventing the University,” David Bartholomae explores the concept of academic writing and the perceived difficulties students face when entering the university environment. Bartholomae argues that students must learn to adapt their writing styles to meet the expectations of the academic community, which he dubs the “university discourse.” This summary aims to unpack the main ideas presented by Bartholomae in his essay.
Understanding Academic Discourse Bartholomae asserts that academic writing is not a natural or inherent skill but rather a discourse community that students must learn to join. He claims that the university sets specific expectations for writing, shaped by the university discourse, which often differ from students’ previous experiences with writing. These expectations can be intimidating and challenging for students, who must negotiate new rules, conventions, and expectations when writing in an academic context.
The Difference Between Student and Academic Writing One of the key points Bartholomae makes is the distinction between student and academic writing. He suggests that students often struggle to mimic the style and tone of academic writing because they have not yet mastered the conventions and language of the university discourse. Students’ writing often demonstrates markers of their previous educational experiences, including non-standard grammar, personal narratives, and colloquial language. These markers, while valuable in other contexts, are generally not accepted within academic writing.
The Role of Authority and Assertion Bartholomae argues that academic writing places a significant emphasis on authority and assertion. Students must learn to adopt a position of authority and assert their ideas confidently to be taken seriously in the university discourse. They must present their arguments and ideas with conviction, substantiate them with valid evidence, and engage with existing scholarly conversations. Failure to do so may result in their ideas being dismissed or marginalized within the academic community.
Learning to Write in the University Discourse To succeed in university writing, Bartholomae suggests that students must “invent the university” by adopting the conventions and strategies of academic discourse. This process involves understanding the expectations and norms of academic writing, analyzing and imitating successful writing models, and eventually developing a unique writing style that fits within the university discourse. This transformation requires practice, perseverance, and a deep engagement with the academic community.
Conclusion
David Bartholomae’s essay “Inventing the University” sheds light on the challenges that students face when entering the academic discourse. By recognizing that academic writing is not a natural ability but rather a learned skill, students can begin to understand the expectations and conventions of the university discourse. Bartholomae’s ideas highlight the importance of transformation and adaptation in student writing, emphasizing the need to engage with the university discourse and develop a strong sense of authority and assertion. Ultimately, “Inventing the University” serves as a valuable guide for students seeking to navigate the complexities of academic writing and thrive within the university environment.
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