Option Topic: Database Design

The final option topic we were presented was database design by Ryan and Sarah. The syllabus has students developing a database from a scenario. Students will consider the outputs required, with data being entered and manipulated through searches and sorts to generate reports (BOS 2003). Students will learn about database development, collecting, organising and storing data. The methods of processing and analysing data and information, integration and developing a project (BOS).

I find databases very interesting and have relied heavily on databases in my previous business and ongoing association I have with the local football club and high school. A good database allows a business, large or small to operate professionally and assists in the daily operation. Finding a clients contact number or what the clients history is with the company can be available at hand. This will make the customer feel more comfortable knowing that the business cares and values the relationship developed over time. A business or organisation with a poor or no database will find it very difficult to communicate with their clients. This is from my personal experience. 

Students may have background knowledge with a parent or family member having discussed or can provide insight into a database. Background knowledge and connectedness of a student applying a real life context or problem (eg sports club, family business) improves significance to students and quality learning outcomes (DET 2003).

Ryan and Sarahs' class activity reminded me of how many different databases we use daily. Itunes, banking, Google etc are all examples that we just use.  

There are many tutorial videos available on databases, video 1 is the first of a series using Microsoft Access 2007.

Video 1. Database Tutorial. You Tube

As a board member for the local soccer club I am looking at approaching the local high school to discuss the possibility of the students taking on the development and upkeep of a club database. There would be many opportunities for schools in the local area to undertake similar projects that would provide a great assistance to clubs but also to students.

References



Board of Secondary Education (2003). Information and Software Technology Syllabus Years 7-10. Sydney, NSW: Board of Secondary Education

NSW Department of Education and Training (2003). Quality Teaching In NSW Public Schools. Sydney, NSW: Department of Education and Training.

Database Tutorial Microsoft Access 2007 retried from You Tube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3q4MuRaTz8o