1. COLLEGE TUITION INCREASES
Tyler Scharlau
CRE 101
Phyllis Salsedo

2. The Issue
State universities across the nation have increased tuition costs over the last few years
What are the reasons for these steep increases?
Who bears the burden?
When will they stop?

3. University of California Article
This article appeared on page A-1 of the San Francisco Chronicle. This is a reputable newspaper that is very credible.
The article was written by a staff writer who gives facts on both sides of the argument – those against tuition increases and those who say they are necessary.
The author gives evidence regarding the effect the tuition increase will have on students, and evidence regarding the university’s rationale behind raising tuition. She uses many meaningful statistics.
The unstated assumption is that a tuition increase would be devastating for all students.
This article encourages the reader to accept the argument that tuition increases are damaging.

4. YouTube Video Against Tuition Increases
This video shows what an increase of $1100 means to the average student.
The video has significant credibility because it gives actual student testimonials against the increases.
These statements are value statements.
The video also includes a statement from The President of the University of Arizona which gives the facts of why he thinks a tuition increase is necessary.
The video also includes a statement from the Arizona Students Association that gives facts denying the need for an increase.
The unstated assumption is that a tuition increase creates a hardship for all students.
It is difficult to deny the argument that these increases will have devastating effects on students.

5. Tuition Increase Graph

6. Graph This graph was published by Ferris State University in Michigan.
This is a credible source as it is an institute of higher learning.
The graph is based upon facts. It shows the increase in tuition over the last three years.
The unstated assumption is that these costs will continue to rise.
It is impossible to deny the argument that tuition costs have increased at a high rate.

7. Cartoons
This cartoon shows a masked gunman holding up a bank teller. The bank teller tells him that the student loan department is three windows down.
The cartoonist is credible, but is making an argument based on both policy and value.
The unstated assumption is that students need to steal money to pay for their tuition.
I think most people would agree with the claim that paying college tuition is highway robbery.

8. Cartoons

9. Final Evaluation
The evidence indicates that both sides of the argument have valid claims of fact and policy, but because of the intense emotion connected with this subject, many students base there arguments on value.
While the school administration can prove that tuition increases are necessary, the credible authorities (the students) make a very strong argument for the devastating effects that these tuition increases will have on them.
This argument is almost impossible to deny.