Unit xx. Databases – I’m a database technician

This unit is planned but development has not yet started. Our plans may change in the future as we continue to review our scheme of learning.

Unit description

Using software to input, store and output data in a structured way.

Unit career

I’m a database technician

“As a database technician, I manage and maintain databases to ensure they run efficiently and securely. My goal is to make sure that data is stored in a way which results in fast data retrieval and reporting for all users.”

Key Question

All the activities in this unit enable students to answer the key question:

How do we use databases to store, search, and present information efficiently so it can be understood and used effectively?

Knowledge statements

This is achieved by students studying 4 “Learn-it” lessons, each of which focus on one knowledge statement:

1. Know the basic concepts and structure of a database.
   • E.g. data is stored in a table that contains records & fields.
2. Know how to use database software such as Microsoft Access to store data.
   • E.g. creating tables, setting data types & a primary key field.
3. Know how to retrieve data from a database using queries to find specific information quickly.
   • E.g. from one table with one or more criteria using the operators =, <, >, LIKE, BETWEEN.
4. Know how to create simple data input forms and reports for users.

What is included in this unit?

• Teacher guide providing a detailed overview of the unit.
• 6 Lesson folders:
  • 4 “Learn-it” lessons with a teacher PowerPoint and student workbook.
  • 1 “Make-it” lesson with assessment materials for teachers and students.
  • 1 “Review-it” lesson with an end of topic MCQ test, assessment grid, peer assessment and self-reflection.
• Any additional resources and materials needed for the activities are provided in the lesson folders.
• 6 detailed lesson plans explaining how to teach the 3 lesson phases.
• Extension activities with model answers.
• 3 independent homework question sheets supported by 3 online videos hosted on Tella.