Databases
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So what is a database?
It is a collection of data with common features e.g. telephone directory
Two main characteristics, being fields and records
Data handling introduced in reception in a simple form e.g. favourite colours,
groupings, pictograms
Advantages of using IT databases
~ Quick and easy
~ Sort records by any field
~ Select specific kinds of records
In primary schools…
Often different from those used in other contexts – to facilitate learning, to retrieve and
manipulate information
Branching tree (binary)
Year 2 start databases
Year 4 should be able to make a branching tree
Binary databases – yes/no questions (closed questions)
Children must learn how to question effectively
~ learn best question to ask first so information is sorted
more efficiently
Good introductory game – “guess who?”
Questions must be asked so only one possible answer is left on a branch (progressive
elimination)
Flat file (tabular database)
One dimensional database – see one record at a time
Card index file analogy (football cards)
Comprises of records arrange in fields holding data
Relational
~complex structure
~ information tagged
~ tagging interrelates data
~greater flexibility in interrogation
~features menus, indexes, keyword searching
(Google), hyperlinks
NC Programme of Study
How does work with databases relate?
Finding things out
~ rapid retrieval of data
~refining questioning skills
~ analysis and interpretation
Developing idea and making things happen
~ making predictions
~ testing hypotheses
~ decision-making
Exchanging and sharing information
~ organising and structuring
~ analysing, interpreting, synthesising and presenting
~ presenting and interpreting graphical information
~ exploring relationships, inconsistencies and errors
Legal and ethical issues
~ Data Protection Act
~Privacy and sensitivity
Using a database in teaching
~ have clear understanding about how it will help develop the children's subject
knowledge, understanding and skills and what ICT capability they will be developing.
YOU will need to consider issues such as:
~ Is the data set I want to use available and appropriate for the subject and age?
~ Should I adapt an available data set to make it more appropriate to the children's
needs?
~ Should I create and save a data structure and input a data set for the children to use?
~ Should I provide the children with a partially complete data set for them to use?
~ Should I provide the children with a database structure for them to input the data set?
 Is it appropriate for the children to create the database structure and input the
data?