Free College for All: A Rogerian Debate

Free college for all.

That was the position of at least seven of the two dozen Democratic candidates who ran for president this year. However, for some, “all” didn’t mean “all.” When candidates were further pressed on whether “free college for all” should also include wealthy families, only three candidates (Castro, Sanders, and Warren) supported it regardless of income. Though “free college for all” is unlikely to make it into the official 2020 Democratic platform, the debate still highlights a sharp division between the progressive and moderate wings of the party. What should be the compromise? Should “free college for all” mean it is truly for all? Using a Rogerian Argument, by way of an infographic, propose a solution that bridges the divide on this debate.

For this assignment, all six components of a traditional Rogerian Argument (overview of the issue, summary of opposing view, statement of understanding, stating your position, statement of contexts, and common ground solution) should be illustrated in one of three areas on the slide: pro, con, and solution. Aim for some variation of THIS configuration. Also, find samples HERE and HERE.

Infographics are most easily utilized in PowerPoint (or a comparable program, such as Canva). Additionally, if you are experienced in them, you may also use Photoshop or Illustrator, though it is by no means required. Keep in mind, this assignment will be delivered electronically.

A well-executed infographic will:

• Have a title: Free College for All(?): A Rogerian Argument
• Have a design dictated by the topic
• Visually translate perspectives and facts in a clear and enlightening manner
• Stay within the parameters of the current “free college for all” debate

You may choose your evidence from the articles below and/or from your own research:

• “Democrats’ Ongoing Argument about Free College, Explained” (Vox)
• "Buttigieg is Wrong—Free College Should be Free for All, Including Children of the Rich” (Los Angeles Times)
• "Klobuchar and Buttigieg are Right About Free College for Rich Kids” (Forbes)
• “Bernie Sanders is Running on a Plan to Bail Out Rich Kids” (Washington Post)
• “Moderate Democrats Should Stop Pretending That Free College is a Giveaway to Rich Kids” (Slate)
• “Should Free College Give Rich Kids a Free Ride?” (US News & World Report)

Due: Thu 4.16 (via Canvas)