Data can be dealt with using either spreadsheets or databases (as the name suggests!). Prior to Aleesha, Erin, Michael and Anthony’s presentation, I had only ever thought of using spreadsheets in the classroom for the purposes of maths. This is simply because of my memories of IPT (Information Processes and Technology) in high school and all the things we did then with spreadsheets. When I put some more thought into databases though, I do remember utilising those for informative purposes. I did enjoy that subject though; perhaps it’s time for me to pull out some of those activities to see if they can be adapted for primary students!
During this workshop, we all got to explore the online database of National Geographic Kids. We focused on dinosaurs – a topic that children and adults alike are curious about! After selecting three dinosaurs, we used the website’s database to provide us with information about the dinosaurs. We created cells in Microsoft Excel and filled out information we obtained about the dinosaurs’ habitat etc. The most interesting part was creating a hyperlink to our pictures!
I think it’s necessary to show students how to use programs such as Microsoft Excel and Access as these are tools which they will most likely use during high school and as adults. Databases and spreadsheets are excellent tools for organising information in an easy to read manner.
