Opposing Viewpoints in Context: Pioneer Argument Database Review

When the district removed SIRS Issues Researcher from the Pioneer offerings, I was initially disappointed. Argument writing is a primary focus in secondary English classes. Therefore, it’s critical for students to have access to materials for argument units and assignments. When students randomly browse the internet for particular topics, it’s like looking in the ocean for a specific fish. However, databases present narrowed topics in useable formats, so students need only search a “pond” for the fish they seek. SIRS has been an efficient place to research argument topics. I have appreciated the features of the site, as students can browse current (top ten) topics, wider subject categories, search by the alphabetical topics page, or utilize advanced search operators to narrow topics further. SIRS also allows users to save articles and create bibliographies in MLA and APA formats.

Ray Hunter, our library media specialist, suggested I browse the Opposing Viewpoints in Context site—one of our available Pioneer databases. Though I had not visited the site previously, I find it to be similar to SIRS, and perhaps even more user-friendly for younger researchers. The home page provides category listings that propel the narrowing process. Students can select wider areas of interest (Business and Economics, Energy and Environment, Health and Medicine, Law and Politics, and a variety of others) and then browse topics within the larger topic. When one hones in a topic category, subtopics lead users to more specific offerings. Afterward, the database lists further categories that specify information types, such as magazine and journal articles, new articles, videos, statistics, etc… This format enables users to include different types of information—and utilize various citation formats when creating reference pages. The features readily guide students toward more thorough research.

I might like the Opposing Viewpoints home page better than SIRS (which I don’t have to compare this one to, presently), because the categories page is within the home page, whereas SIRS topic categories page is a separate feature. I feel that the Opposing Viewpoints topics page will steer students toward topic sooner, as there are fewer site distractions than on the SIRS homepage. Students using Opposing Viewpoints can choose the BROWSE ISSUES feature, which is similar to the SIRS A-Z listing. The searching feature allows for Boolean operators and the sidebar features offer current news, commentary, and multi-media topics that provide politically significant information. Opposing Viewpoints lists topic results by the most current to the least, while SIRS requires advanced operators that narrow date fields. I feel the Opposing Viewpoints database leads students more efficiently to credible data that is also relevant. The SEARCH HISTORY feature assists users in moving forward or backward through research, so users don’t lose their places while wandering.

Each site allows for similar processes that ease searching, saving material for continued use, and utilizing data for citation purposes. Though I’m more familiar with SIRS Issues Researcher, I feel the Opposing Viewpoints site has merit and may be a good substitute.

Angie Bulloch, Snowcrest Jr. High School