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RSS FeedWho should rate Helium debate articles:Those who agree or disagree?
Results so far:
| Agree | 61% | 376 votes | Total: 619 votes | |
| Disagree | 39% | 243 votes |
Agree
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Add to FavoritesIn my experience in rating articles that I am not in agreement with, has been difficult. I have had to reminded myself often ,that it is about the way the article is written,the format, if the author has stayed on topic, and used correct spelling and grammar and then concluded the article well. I think my attempt at being objective is challenged beyond at least my own abilities at this time.Therefore, for me I think rating on one side is better.
I have also found at times, even the question regarding choosing a side has led me to skip,until I have given it the necessary thought. And well we all know, at times we just have not made up our mind on the issue presented.Some times we hope the request for a choice never comes up again.And if we are lucky it won't.
It does seem that there is a pattern of presenting articles for rating,to vary the different areas and to allow for a broader range of writings for rating.It also seems that at times,that maybe there is a mystery "Helium man" who lines up articles ahead for each of us according to how we have rated in the past.
Rating articles even on the debate side that supports our own view is sometimes difficult.Some articles with only a minor tweak,would be better then the other.So using "slightly more" becomes my more common choice.I have to feel strongly on the subject to even decide to debate,limp views are difficult to support and can fall flat on the face.Hating double digit ratings of my articles as I do ,causes me to steer clear of them at times.
It would be nice to have a means, beside the boards,to see the final outcome of many of our debates. We can learn to understand and of course respect the other points of view. Perhaps even causing us to change our mind.If they could be headlined over our community board,we are then all learning from each other.
I imagine that raters and writers with an advanced background in this craft,would do better in rating on both sides of the issue.Their skills are such, that they are able to remove themselves from the topic,and see just how each article is written.Hopefully appreciating the efforts of its author and rating it accordingly.
Since our writing and rating is what it is all about at Helium, I feel committed to do my best in both areas.Which sometimes means that I just keep on trying.
Learn more about this author, Olivia Bredbenner.
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Disagree
I disagree with the stance on a debate article on Helium. Do I make a better judge on that article? I believe it is distinctly possible that I would make a better judge.
If I am honest, even though I do not agree with the debate, I will probably read the article more thoroughly and with a more critical eye. If I'm in agreement with the debate, I might miss some important points.
However, if I'm out to bash the disagreement side, no matter what, I will read the article in a negative way. A rater should never judge the article with the intention of belittling the author.
For me, personally, I enjoy a friendly debate with another person. Even though my views are opposite than theirs, I can honestly listen to their side. I will give honest and thoughtful comments to the person. I expect that she will give me honest comments in return.
For example, my view on my relationship with Jesus Christ is the focal point of my life. However, I can listen to a person who does not share my belief and offer my thoughts and comments.
When rating an article, the person should keep several things in mind.
First, be objective. Even if the rater is not in agreement, read the article for clarity, completeness of thought, grammar, spelling, and validity of points.
Second, be constructive in giving criticism. Telling an author that he is a terrible speller doesn't help. However, stating a few of the misspelled words would get him in the right direction. Of course, a good dictionary is helpful. A great online resource is www.m-w.com (Merriam-Webster).
Th ird, don't get bogged down in the aspect that you (the rater) are in total disagreement with the subject. There are probably several good points within the article. If the rater is only looking for the negative aspects, a well-written article might be overlooked.
Fourth, it's okay that the rater lets the author know of the disagreement over the debate. A rater should feel comfortable stating something like, "although I'm in complete disagreement with you, this article is well written, with solid facts."
Fifth, comments should be relevant to the subject and not derogatory to the author. If an author truly misstates something that is fact, kindly point out that information and move on to the next point.
Sixth, the golden rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. If you as a rater are nasty in your comments to the author, yet expect only kindness in return, the point is missed. Treat each person with respect and understand that we all are entitled to differing opinions.
Seventh: Rate consistently, honestly, and fairly.
In conclusion, a rater who is in disagreement with the debate has the potential of offering solid constructive criticism. There is also the possibility of learning some facts, which can help strengthen the agreement side of the debate.
Learn more about this author, Jinianne Lutz.
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