- Center for Instructional Technology & Training -

Database

What is it?

A database is a collection of structured information (records) which is stored on a computer for use in queries. A program known as a database management system (DBMS) is used to manage the queries to the database. Many professionals would consider a collection of data to constitute a database if:

• The data is managed to ensure its integrity and quality.
• The database allows shared access by a community of users.
• The database has a schema or supports a query language.

Databases are the preferred method of storage for large multi-user applications where coordination between many users is needed. A database is also a place where you can store data and then arrange that data easily and efficiently.

Database

What are the educational uses and benefits?

Research:

• Students can be directed to various databases to do research for projects and assignments.

Store and Retrieve Information:

• An educator can build a database to store and retrieve specific information or materials or can access a database such as the Education Resources Information Center (ERIC) to find information or materials.

Database

Can I see an example?

The following are samples of the many databases available to the University Faculty, Students, and Staff through the Smathers Libraries:

• Cambridge Scientific Abstracts
• EBSCOhost
• EUREKA
• FirstSearch
• Gale Group
• LexisNexis
• NISC BiblioLine
• PALMM Collections
• ProQuest
• SilverPlatter WebSpirs
• UF Health Science Center Library Databases
• Web of Knowledge
• WebLUIS
• WilsonWeb

Database

How do I get started?

Before you set up a database, figure out what information needs to be stored in the database. Also determine how you want to use that data. What queries (or searches) would you like to run and what type of results will you need to see?

Creating databases requires access to a server that has both database software and some scripting language to interact with it and display the data on web pages. The most common opensource solution is MySQL and PHP. Contact your IT staff to find out about what resources are available.

Database

Where can I learn more?

• Education Databases: A listing of Education Databses.
• Education Resources Information Center - ERIC Database: An example of an educational database.
• MySQL - Open Source Database: Open source free software to build a database.
• Smathers Libraries Databases: A search engine to explore the UF Smathers Libraries Databases.
• Wikipedia - Database: Detailed definition and examples of databases.