Introduction to Database and Database Management

I'm thinking of organizing a brief knowledge-sharing session about database next week. I hope to share what are the opportunities in having a "real database." Below my preliminary syllabus:

Learning Outcome: At the end of this 2-hour session, participants are expected to have a working knowledge and appreciation of database, and database design and management, to help them in efficient data collection, storage, reporting, and ultimately, decision-making.
                     
Among others, the session will allow the participant to answer the following questions and apply that knowledge to their own situation/requirements:

1. What is a database?
2. What are the uses of database (aside from getting stored data)?
3. How should we design databases (and why so)?
4. What are the available tools and techniques in processing data in a database?

During the session, participants will analyze available data forms or table reports to design a data collection tool that will allow the user use and “re-use” data.

Methods of Instruction: Guided discussion, paper form analysis, and tool application

Logistical Requirements:

• Projector and laptop with internet connection and spreadsheet application
• Sample report forms for analysis
• Participants may bring their own laptop for exercises

Session Participants: To maximize the learning experience, it is recommended that participants be limited to those who:

• Use database-like applications (Microsoft Excel) on a regular basis; or
• Use matrix reports from agencies that want to reuse data.

Session Size: Due to the interactive nature of this session, a maximum size of 10 is recommended.