Week Five Reflection Question

Question #2. Define database management software and describe how you might use it to help you in teaching responsibilities. How might you construct a learning a learning assignment for your students that used this productivity tool?

Database management software is a computer program, such as Microsoft Access, that allows for the organization and manipulation of stored data. There are three main components of a database. The first is called a field. A field is a single unit of stored data. Examples include a last name, a zip code, or a movie title. The second component is called a record. A record is a collection of all related fields. And finally, number three is a file, which is a collection of all related records. Mailing lists are a common form of database management software usage. However, the most used form of database usage is the search of internet information.

Once data has been entered into the database, it can be manipulated. Some of the most common methods of manipulation are sorting, queries, and report preparation. Sorting can be accomplished easily, with the touch of a key. It can be alphabetical, numerical, ascending, or descending. It can be done using any of the entered fields or using multiple fields. A query is the request for a single defined bit of information. The most impressive aspect of a database, queries allows for the retrieval of specific targeted information. Database management software also allows for the output of customized reports containing any or all data requested.

As a teacher, I will need to keep records on every student. The data might include name, student ID number, address, phone number, and parental information. It could also include any personal preference data I might have collected during introductory classes, such as favorite music, favorite movie, and hobbies. Although teachers use a grading spreadsheet software package, I might also use database software to record all student grades for greater retrieval flexability. The software can also be used to maintain an inventory of classroom equipment. Database management software will allow me to access and target needed data quickly.

As the textbook states, the most common usage of a database in the school is in the library, using the electronic card catalog. While it would be easy to develop a lesson centered on the library, I would leave this to another teacher. As a mathematics teacher, I would have the students develop their own database of helpful mathematics sites on the internet. If every student was responsible for only 4 or 5 different sites, very quickly the class would have a database of one hundred sites. The assignment would require logical thinking in order to determine the fields, and data to collect. It would require critical thinking to insure that accurate queries could be performed. But most of all it would enable the students to seek help on their own, without having to spend numerous hours of research. They could target a site based on help needed.