Summary of Databases

Databases are computer programs that allow users to store, organize, and manipulate information, including both text and numerical data. Database software can perform some calculations like a spreadsheet, but the primary purpose is information retrieval through keyword searches. The analogy used in Roblyer (1997) of comparing a database to a file cabinet made perfect sense to me!

The Roblyer text describes four benefits that databases offer to educators. First, databases reduce data redundancy. Because databases can be accessed from multiple locations, a school only needs to keep one actual copy of student information for example. In addition, databases save time when it comes to locating and/or updating information. Whenever a change needs to be made, it is done on one central computer rather than rummaging through various offices, file cabinets, and file folders. Likewise, databases can locate information that meets several criteria at once. Finally, databases help to reveal relationships among data. Research has shown that students need guidance though on asking relevant questions and analyzing the results provided by a database search. When incorporated properly, databases can be useful in teaching inquiry and problem-solving skills.

While teachers are not as dependent on databases for productivity, teachers can and do depend on databases to enhance instruction. Ways that teachers use databases to enhance instruction include: teaching research and study skills, teaching organization skills, understanding the power of information "pictures," posing and testing hypotheses, and searching for information during research.