Using the Moodle Database for student co-creation

This resource outlines the kinds of tasks possible, potential assessment opportunities, and initial set-up for the Database activity. The Database activity enables participants to create, maintain and search a collection of entries (i.e., records). It can be a useful way to encourage students to contribute to the collaborative learning of the class.

Why?

The inclusion of collaborative activities in online learning can promote positive student performance outcomes. Collaborative group interactions facilitate active learning, shared knowledge, and promote social interaction and a supportive online learning community. Collaboration models how to work with others in real-world situations. These collaborative activities help prepare students for the workplace, including learning how to share ideas, express opinions, and manage time. 

The Database activity can be used to:

• Have students record the details of reference works they have found useful for your course,
• Share work - such as book reviews, personal reflections, and collaborative activities where content builds on previous contributions - with other students,
• Collect resources that are searchable by keyword, author, title etc.

How

Creating a new Database activity in Moodle

1. Ensure Edit mode is on. 
   
2. Click the Add an activity or resource button. 
   
3. Select Database from the Add an activity or resource chooser. 
   
4. Enter a meaningful title in the Name text box. 
5. (Optional) Add a description to the activity in the Description text box.
6. Complete additional settings to suit your requirements. 
   
   Note: For further guidance on settings, refer to the Database activity settings Moodle support resource.
7. Click the Save and display button. 

Your Database activity has now been created, and you will now be prompted to Start building your activity by populating the fields which will form the template for entries in the Database activity.