Final answer:
An academic essay on contemporary dating would explore the effects of digital media on modern relationships, the shift in communication and breaking up etiquettes, and how individuals navigate these changes. Academic writing requires a formal and analytical approach, while also allowing for personal voice, to discuss such contemporary issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The subject of contemporary dating involves understanding how modern relationships are formed, maintained, and sometimes ended in today's society. It is characterized by the significant influence of digital media and the internet. Technology has enabled new forms of communication, for example, the use of dating apps and social networking sites, which have revamped the landscape of dating and relationships among individuals, especially the youth. The rise of online dating platforms and social media has led to new etiquettes and expectations in the dating scene. Furthermore, the aspect of breaking up via digital means as highlighted by anthropologist Ilana Gershon signifies a shift in how personal interactions are handled in the modern context.
Academic writing, as per the instructions of Trevor Garcia's composition course, necessitates an analytical approach to issues such as these. Students like Shawn Krukowski have utilized their writing assignments to delve into contemporary problems such as climate change and suggest viable solutions. In a similar way, writing an academic essay on contemporary dating would require analysis of its causes and effects and providing evidence-backed perspectives on the issue.
When approaching this topic in an academic setting, it's crucial to adhere to the academic English writing style which expects clarity, structure, and a formal tone, while also allowing room for the author's individual voice and identity. This balance between formality and personal touch must also be reflected in the framing of the thesis statement that would guide the essay's argument. An essay on contemporary dating might also touch upon how students are taught about relationships in an educational context, and the paradox presented by schools that emphasize the importance of nutrition and balanced meals but serve students subpar food.