Blog # 12 Databases

Databases
Creating databases is vital to be able to keep track or data and records of your students. Earlier in the course I leaned how to take data, plug it in to excel, to create pseudo databases of grades integrating formulas with data. Database software is more simple however, as it allows one to create a survey and plug data in automatically. After the data is collected the user can analyze data by looking at it in a variety of visual formats. The way in which we used databases in class is not necessary the medium people use to look at data. In the Repp article he details how people are using the world wide web to input as well as store databases. These forums can also be used like WebCt is used a California State University San Marcos to have classwork done online as well as tuned in electronically. As a teacher it is vital to be familiar with database technology especially when it comes to assessment and quality control. Furthermore, it becomes especially helpful when analyzing what the strengths and weakness of your students in order for you or any other teacher to be able to apply the appropriate teaching methods to the classroom.
One of the other readings dealt with the practical application of databases and gave specific examples of how their use in the classroom can foster thinking about possible research methods. The given example was a database of the U.S. presidents. The article pointed out that students could use such a database that they would create as a first step to working on more in depth analysis and then research of a more specific one. This article encourages teachers to gives students a opportunity to learn as well as to teach, hence breaking away from more traditional styles of lecture. In the example of Marion Diamond’s classroom she found that “when they know they are responsible for adding to the classroom collection of information, [they] are more diligent in doing detailed research and in ensuring that the information is accurate” (6). If one followed this method the students could essentially do much of the principle work, leaving the teacher to stand as a mediator and a person who ensured that the information is correct. In implementing teaching methods such as these it is vital to ensure that your students are aware of copyright laws and the issue of plagiarism in order to ensure that they are doing research in a correct way. Once initial data is collected and some research done to ensure the integrity of the data a teacher may be able to have fun with the students having them use the database to answer a questionnaire. One could even integrate other programs like power point and do a review game like Jeopardy. In the case of the presidents, one could make up a presidential trivia game.
The Kahn article dealt with specific tasks databases can do for students. Kahn suggests that the importance of databases is two fold. One: to do any kind of research electronically, and Two: to use higher thinking skills by having students create and define categories. The article references some aging Mac software that can be found on early versions on Macintosh computers, however still present in current database software. Like the previous article it spoke of various ways to implement and use databases in the classroom. Highlighted were the pop up menus and value lists. These were highlighted because it gives students an alternative way of conceptualizing units of information. The pop up menu gives student a choice of values to choose from; a multiple choice of answers if you will. Whereas, the value lists give students the opportunity to fill in the blank and add information that might not be applicable to the field discussed.
Over all I see the importance of implementing databases in the classroom. The perfection of this practice is vital in order to promote and foster the critical thinking of students. This is especially a good tool to use with students in middle school provided that their computer literacy is up to par. Initially I thought that databases were just a fun way to analyze grades or subjects in the classroom. However, after reading the article sit is very clear that they can be used all across the spectrum whether it be individually by the teacher or collectively by the classroom.