Using Databases in the Classroom

Database programs are not only useful for storing and organizing student information, but they can also be useful tools in the classroom. The structure of a database can help students organize information. Teachers can also use the records and fields in a database to present activities that use a repetitive structure. I have found a database program called FileMaker Pro especially useful because it allows you to easily include sound in your database. FileMaker Pro is licensed for use in Ontario Schools by the Ontario Ministry of Education. It is also cross- platform, which means is it possible to use the same FileMaker Pro database on both Macintosh and Windows computers.

Literacy Objective:
In this lesson students will learn to read and spell a list of words.

Computer Objective:
Students will also learn to enter data in a database.

Introduction and Preparation:
Here are the instructions for creating a simple FileMaker Pro database where students can store a list of spelling or vocabulary words. Once the words are stored, students can use the database to practise reading and spelling these words.

1. Run FileMaker Pro.
2. Click on Create a new empty file.
   Click on OK.
3. Save the Database.
   1. Type a name.
   2. Choose a disk and/or folder.
   3. Click on Save.
4. Create the following fields:
   1. Type a name.
   2. Choose a field Type. (Container is used for pictures and sounds.)
   3. Click on Create.
   4. Repeat these steps for all of the fields.
   5. Click on Done.
5. Create a layout for the students to enter information.
   1. Go to Layout in the Mode menu.
   2. Go to Layout Setup in the Mode menu.
   3. Type a layout name: Entry Form.
   4. Click on OK.
   5. Move the fields and adjust their sizes to be similar to the picture below. Delete the fields you're not using in this layout.
      
      The first field in each row is the Status field. Here students will mark each word "Practice" or "Mastered". The second field is the Speech field. When students double- click in this field they can record themselves saying the word. Next they type the word, a sentence containing the word and the part of speech.
   6. Create lines at the bottom of each field.
      1. Hold down the Shift key.
      2. Click on each field.
      3. Go to Field Borders in the Format menu.
      4. Click on Bottom.
      5. Click on OK.
   7. Type a title in the Header at the top.
   8. Go to Browse in the Mode menu.
   9. Go to View as List in the Select menu.