Thinking Critically with Computers: Databases

Database

Many companies uses databases as a way to organize and store data. Databases can also be used as a tool to engage students in learning a deeper understanding of the content.

The following is a paper written by Brad Ryder: http://www.knowalot.com/nova/developing.htm . The paper does not seem to be published but encompasses methodologies on how to use a database as a mindtool to engage students in critical thinking. First, students need to determine what content he or she would like to use in the database. Second, creating queries, the students will decide what categories are relevant. Third, questions, students will create questions that may be asked of their database. Creating questions promotes critical thinking skills such as assessing information, recognizing fallacies, recognizing assumptions, and inferring inductively and deductively [Jonassen, 1996]. Designing the structure of the database, encourages students to research to find a better understanding of the topic. Creating the questions makes students think deeper about the relationships between each field.

Please notice the references at the end of the paper because they are excellent resources of using mindtools to promote crtical thinking