Texas House Bill HB4175

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to restrictions on the method of providing public speaking or similar courses by public institutions of higher education.

Impact

The bill is set to affect courses offered starting in the fall semester of 2019, limiting the availability of public speaking courses to traditional in-person formats. The implication of this bill means that students interested in honing their oral communication skills must attend these courses physically. Supporters argue that public speaking requires immediate feedback and interpersonal interaction, which online formats cannot adequately provide. Therefore, the bill seeks to uphold the quality of education received by students studying these disciplines.

Summary

House Bill 4175 introduces restrictions on the method by which public institutions of higher education in Texas may offer courses in public speaking and related topics. Specifically, the bill prohibits these institutions from providing such courses in online formats or through distance learning if they require substantial oral performance or presentation components. This legislative move aims to maintain educational integrity and ensure that students engage in face-to-face communication practices vital for mastering public speaking skills.

Contention

Critics of HB 4175 may argue that this legislation unduly restricts students’ access to learning opportunities by limiting public speaking courses to in-person formats only. In an increasingly digital age, where online education offers flexibility and accessibility, some may contend that such a ban could discourage students, particularly non-traditional students and those with work or family commitments, from pursuing education in public speaking. The debate centers on finding a balance between educational effectiveness and accessibility in modern learning environments.