Order or Chaos? Exploring Databases

Students learn what a database is and apply their understanding of what defines a database by analyzing real-world collections they encounter. Working individually or in small groups, students select an online organizational system and evaluate whether it meets the criteria of a searchable, structured database. They examine how the collection is organized, how information is retrieved, and how items are added or removed, while distinguishing between personal and externally created systems. Through this hands-on evaluation, students strengthen their ability to recognize information organization, search functionality, and access structures, building practical skills for navigating online databases. 

Time: ~45 min.