Trigger warnings in the academic space (Essay Sample)

Student’s Name Instructor’s Name Course Date Trigger Warnings in the Academic Space The trigger warning debate in higher education touches on expression and psychological welfare issues. Some scholars have condemned content warnings on sensitive information, labeling them a threat to academic freedom (Bower). On the other hand, people and activists defend this stance as a relief for students suffering from trauma and mental disorders. As a result, academic stakeholders must evaluate its application and limitations to protect vulnerable learners while avoiding infringing on creativity. In this regard, although trigger warnings suppress expression, they can promote student engagement and psychological well-being. Critics of the trigger warning movement outline its adverse impact on expression and creativity. Research shows that such an initiative undermines fundamental freedoms, including speech, religion, assembly, and expression (Steeg). Tertiary institutions have a role to play in encouraging communication, idea exchange, learning, and debates regarding unconventional and sensitive issues. Introducing content warnings could exclude critical information in history and other disciplines. For instance, a researcher criticizes an effort to censor “The Great Gatsby” because of intimate partner violence, despite its value in informing on events and social issues relating to the First World War (Bower). Such an initiative could suppress learning, expression, and discussion on critical historical issues. Unfortunately, it could also truncate the syllabus and curricular advancement. However, trigger warnings are necessary for protecting students against trauma. Over the years, scholars have discussed the lack of oversight over curricular materials and classroom content. Considering that people and societal issues have evolved, school textbooks and course materials must reflect this change. Studies outline that some books contain violence, explicit graphics, and suggestive information that could trigger traumatic episodes in learners (Bower). Like “The Great Gatsby,” some literary works written decades ago contain irrelevant details in some sections that do not contribute to appropriate learning. Furthermore, students in modern society suffer from a variety of psychological disorders that were not common in the previous century (Bower). This initiative can cater to their mental welfare and foster safety in the classroom. Moreover, this circumstance promotes engagement for all students. Unarguably, some books and class materials can affect even individuals who are not vulnerable to traumatic disorders and episodes (Bower). As a result, trigger warnings can encourage educators to engage students with meaningful and appropriate content. Furthermore, research demonstrates that sensitive and violent information could create discomfort and distress in the classroom, leading to poor engagement (Mitchell 7). As a result, this effort ensures standardization in the learning process by providing safe content for all students. Thus, trigger warnings facilitate better educational outcomes and engagement. The conversation on content warnings is a deve...