UAPP 110
1
Opposing Views – Research Paper
Assignment:
Write a research paper on a policy problem of your own choosing. Use the Opposing Views Database to
select a policy issue/policy problem. The paper needs to provide compelling data/information/evidence
of the problem you selected from 2 different perspectives. This Research Paper will serve as the basis (a
building block) for the Opposing Views – Poster assignment towards the end of the semester.
Objective:
The objective of this assignment is to challenge students in the introductory public policy course to select a
policy problem and present compelling evidence of the selected policy problem from two different
perspectives. The focus of this research paper is Problem Identification as was discussed in Chapter 4 of
the textbook.
1. Select a Policy Issue: Choose a policy issue/problem of interest from the Opposing Views in
Context Database (https://library.udel.edu/databases/ovic/ ). Important:
a.) The selected policy problem must have diverse and opposing viewpoints available for analysis
(Click on Browse All when on the web page of the Opposing Views database). The chosen
policy problem must have sufficient information so you can write this Research paper on
Problem Identification (problem definition).
b.) The selected policy problem must actually be a problem. Some of the entries listed in the
Opposing Views Database are policy solutions, not policy problems. For example: Universal
Basic Income (UBI) is not a policy problem, it is a potential policy solution/intervention to the
problem of poverty. Gun Control is not a policy problem – it might potentially be a potential
solution to a different policy problem. Universal Health Care is not a policy problem it is a
potential policy solution. The paper must be written on a policy problem.
2. Conduct Research: Use only the Opposing Views in Context database to gather information and
evidence related to the chosen policy issue. Consider multiple viewpoints within the database on this
issue.
3. Write a Paper: Write a 6-page, single space paper using 12 point font on the selected policy issue. The
paper must have 2 sections of equal length and weight (data, information evidence presented). Section
1 should have the title: View #1 and section 2 should have the title; View #2. The priority is on
defining the policy problem (see Chapter 4 of our textbook). Pls use additional subheadings to make
your write-up more readable. Use data/information/evidence from the Opposing Views database. Pls
do not reveal in your paper which one of these Views are your own. The two sections must stand on
their own. Include references on page 7 and beyond. Be consistent with your citation method.
Notes:
This homework is a significant assignment and will take 5 or more hours to complete. If you have completed it faster, you
haven’t done enough work.
This assignment is worth 25 points out of 100 you can earn in this course.
This homework is an individual assignment.
This entry will be graded on the use of knowledge covered in class, evidence, completeness, effort and thoughtfulness.
Submit your Research Paper as one document in a PDF format to Canvas on or before the deadline.
