When thinking of databases there is one thought that comes immediatly to mind: hmmm..... I really do not know what I think of these; but perhaps that is my own fault for not researching them enough, or not seeing a wide enough variety of samples. The first site that was posted in our assignments folder (www.teach-nology.com) brought up a very provacative point, when it asked how effective it would be if students could see there grades posted on a database at anytime. The students at the school that I am in now have a program like this, in which they and their parents can access that student's grades at anytime, and it is very effective because the parents are always aware of how their children are doing. In regards to using a database as part of assignment, I guess that would depend on the assignment and the database being used.
Overall, I think that databases are great tools, but I think that they must be carefully planned and designed. They will not be effective if students have not been given proper instruction, or if they do not full understand what it is that database is showing them.
I would really have to think long and hard about how I could implement a database in what I am teaching now. (We are reading Poe) But could see them being a great tool for history and science. With that said, I am not so much afraid of databases as I am indifferent. But, like I said, that may just because I did not research them in as much depth as I could have.
1 comment:
I think for right-brained folks the database concept is difficult. It is for me. For linear thinkers they are easy and the "get" how to implement them. You, on the other hand, created a powerful WebQuest, which is a much more difficult task. If you want to use databases you'll find a need, just another tool option to put in your teacher-toolbelt.
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