Understanding databases
Databases can be a difficult topic. This activity gets it right for adult learners by approaching the topic in a way that establishes its relevance to their lives. Learners will understand how databases work through everyday examples. They may discover that although databases are relevant, they themselves may not actually need to operate them.
The activity developed from Improving teaching and learning in ICT (DfES, 2005*) has been adapted here. It involves learners in an enjoyable group activity away from their computer screens.
* The Department for Education and Skills originally delivered the Programme through the DfES Standards Unit and is now managed by QIA.
In this activity and others, tutors should be sensitive to the possible literacy, language and numeracy (LLN) needs of their learners, and keep in mind the information and communications technology (ICT) Skills for Life standards at
New browser window: www.qca.org.uk.
If you are new to Skills for Life, the site below is a useful general starting point which you can explore as required. The section on teaching and learning gives a good overview of the Skills for Life agenda. If you are already involved in Skills for Life, you may find it useful to receive the regular updates from the site.
New browser window: www.dfes.gov.uk/readwriteplus/