DATABASES

Database is a computer programs to store, organize, and manipulate information, including text and numerical data. The sole purpose of database is to store important data in a way that makes it easy to locate as needed.

Databases can be used in education, and offers many benefits.
1. Saves time locating and/or updating information: Users can find the information needed very quickly, and changes can be made as needed.
2. Allows comparisons of information through searching across files.
3. Helps reveal relationships among data: Students can see the relationships between information elements that they might not perceive.
4. Teachers can even use it to send personalized letters to parents and others. Teacher only has to create ONE letter or note and the database program takes care of the personalization of the letter.

One negative issue with databases is PRIVACY. Educators must be very careful since databases can consist of personal information. They must protect it from unauthorized access. I am not a big user of databases. First of all, I am not very familiar with the software, and have not really invested too much time on manipulating it or learning too much about it.