This module will run from Oct. 29 to Nov. 4

Spreadsheets

Spreadsheets can be regarded as computerized, numerical record-keeping systems and has three major functions, namely storing, calculating and presenting information. Using a spreadsheet, the learner engages in a variety of mental processes, such as designing, using, and filling in values and formulas, that require learners to use existing rules, generate new rules describing relationships and organize information. These processes engage critical thinking in the learners.The grid-like structure of spreadsheets facilitates the storage, calculation and presentation of information. The process of defining the organization of the values, formulas and functions in a spreadsheet involves analysis-level learning. The emphasis of using spreadsheets in teaching and learning falls on the identification of relationships and describing those relationships in terms of higher order rules. This forces the learner to think more deeply. Using spreadsheets that operates on the using of rules, forces learners to become rule makers. Building spreadsheets requires abstract reasoning by the user. The learner is thus forced to use the technology to explore information and to form test sample hypotheses.

Ideas for Using Spreadsheets in the Classroom

Spreadsheet Classroom Resources

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Database

A database is a computer program for organizing information. There are many examples of databases around us. When you use a card or electronic catalog in a library, you are using a database. When you use a telephone book, you are using a database. But a database is a lot more than a telephone book. It can be an extremely powerful tool in the classroom if used appropriately.

A databases allow users to store, organize, and query information by keywords. Database construction requires classification and organization skills, and encourages students to think relationally and with careful attention to details.

A database can help learners to integrate and interrelate content ideas, which in turn makes the ideas more meaningful and more memorable. Building databases requires that learners organize information by identifying the relevant dimensions of the content. Databases can be used as inquiry tools to aid higher-order thinking skills in e.g. history.

A large number of critical, creative and complex thinking skills are required to use and construct knowledge-oriented databases, e.g. evaluating information, analyzing information and connecting information. When learners construct and query databases, they build and exemplify structural models of the content they are studying and are using models to compare and contrast relationships among information contained in their models. This necessarily engages higher-order thinking skills in learners, which results in better understanding.

The process of creating and manipulating a database is constructive, which means that learners are mentally actively engaged in learning, rather than merely responding to questions, e.g.:

  • actively building structures
  • engaging in knowledge representation activities
  • defining relationships between concepts
  • constructing records
  • constructing search procedures
  • sorting of data
  • comparing data
  • finding specific characteristics by using "and", "or", and "not"
  • communicating by means of reports.

Database Classroom Resources

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Spreadsheet/Database Assignment (Due Nov. 11)

In order to make sure you become as independent as possible with the use of technology, the spreadsheet and database assignment will be an independent tutorial. After you complete this formal technology course you may never have another formal technology course again. You will need to be confident with your skills and be able to follow self-paced documents to learn new technology skills. It would be impossible to take formal classes to learn all the technology skills you will need in your everyday life and in the classroom.


This independent tutorial will allow you to move at your own pace while meeting the course requirements for spreadsheets and databases. You need to follow the tutorial as presented. YOU DO NOT NEED TO PRINT ANY OF THE FILES. You will use Microsoft Excel to complete these requirements.Make sure you save the files exactly as named in the tutorial. I am not guessing which file is which.


There are ten files that must be submitted. In order to upload them to the dropbox it best to put them in a compressed zip folder. Place all your files in a folder. Use Windows Explorer (not Internet Explorer) to find your folder, right-click and select Send To, then select Compressed (zipped) Folder. XP will create a file with a .zip extension. The folder would be compressed into a new folder named "foldername".zip.This zipped folder is the one you will attach in dropbox and submit. Note: if you do not have Windows XP, you may also use a free trial-version of program called WinZip© [available at www.winzip.com] to compress the folder and all its contents.

Good Luck! I hope you find this assignment enjoyable and valuable.

Spreadsheet/Database Independent Tutorial - You need to use your Ashland Login information to access tutorial.