Pop Culture Universe

Today I looked at the pop culture universe database. This database has ALL kinds of information about anything Pop Culture. On the home page there are links to articles about the black sox scandal, the 1970's and even Kurt Cobain. Users can view articles that are divided into decades. I chose the 2000's to view. The page opens up to an introduction about the decade. Then on the left hand side there are more in depth articles having to do with media, fashion, and politics of the decade. 2000 has a youtube, facebook, and twitter section. I clicked on youtube and found articles about popular comedy videos that have been posted within the last ten years. There is also a facts a figure section where users can view articles about discoveries and inventions that happened in the 2000's. Users can also look at product reviews and business reports of the decade. Besides the decade option users can also read idea exchange topics. One topic I saw was "Is the Book Dying". These articles are posted to get people thinking and responding. Controversial topics are covered like Celebrities and their Responsibility as role models, and "Are video games art?" The Articles are written by selected authors and then reviewed by an advisory board. Users can leave their two cents on the topics too. I think this is an excellent jumping off point for a pros and cons essay paper. It would almost give students the ability to run a survey, without actually taking a survey. Many different opinions are presented which would be a great way to become familiar and well informed about an essay topic. there is also an advanced search option where you can pick and choose what you want to view. Selections start in the most general. users can pick what format they want the information in, like articles, facts and figures, documents, or time lines. Then they can choose a decade, then certain aspects of that decade like transportation and so on until you find an article or piece of information that is exactly what you are looking for. I think this database is really fun. I think it could be really helpful for comp II students needing help getting started on an essay.