IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Is technology increasing or decreasing social mobility?
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Writing Task 2 Topic: "Is technology increasing or decreasing social mobility?"
Model Answer:
In recent years, technology has played a significant role in transforming various aspects of society. One such transformation is the impact it has had on social mobility. The extent to which technology has influenced social mobility can be assessed from multiple perspectives, including education, job opportunities, and communication.
From an educational standpoint, technology has opened up new avenues for learning and access to knowledge. Online resources, such as Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), digital libraries, and e-books have democratized education by making it accessible to people from all walks of life. Consequently, technology has the potential to level the playing field, providing equal opportunities for everyone regardless of their socioeconomic background.
However, there are concerns that technology may inadvertently widen the gap between the privileged and underprivileged. For instance, while access to information and knowledge is ostensibly free online, the digital divide remains a significant barrier. Those without reliable internet access or the necessary digital skills are at risk of being left behind, thereby exacerbating social inequality.
In terms of job opportunities, technology has created new industries and roles that require specialized skill sets. This has the potential to increase social mobility by offering more diverse career options for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. For example, the rise of freelance work and remote jobs has provided flexibility in terms of location and hours, enabling people who may not have had traditional employment opportunities to enter the job market.
However, there are also concerns that automation and artificial intelligence (AI) could displace human labor in many industries. While this may create new roles, it is likely to disproportionately affect those at the lower end of the socioeconomic spectrum, as they are more vulnerable to job losses due to a lack of access to retraining or upskilling opportunities.
In terms of communication and social interaction, technology has revolutionized how people connect with one another. Social media platforms, instant messaging, and video conferencing have broken down geographical barriers, making it easier for individuals from different socioeconomic backgrounds to network, collaborate, and share ideas. This can potentially increase social mobility by facilitating access to opportunities that may have been previously unavailable due to location or financial constraints.
However, there are concerns about the impact of technology on mental health and social isolation. The overreliance on digital communication may lead to a disconnection from real-life relationships and experiences, exacerbating existing social inequalities. For instance, individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may find it more challenging to access offline support networks or resources that contribute to personal development.
In conclusion, technology has both the potential to increase and decrease social mobility. While it has democratized education, created new job opportunities, and facilitated communication across different socioeconomic groups, it also poses challenges in terms of digital accessibility, displacement of human labor, and mental health implications. Therefore, it is crucial to leverage technology responsibly and ensure that its benefits are equitably distributed to foster social mobility for all members of society.
Task Response:
9.0
Coherence and Cohesion:
8.5
Lexical Resource:
9.0
Grammatical Range & Accuracy:
9.0
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