Given all the online topics of discussions in our reference course, I have to say that this one on databases is what excited me the most! I'm extremely pleased with the amount of information that I obtained from having had the opportunity to explore the different databases that our district subscribes to. Unfortunately, I only had the chance to explore one - but fortunately, I chose what I think is the best one - World Book Online!
What an incredible resource WBO is! There's certainly something for everyone. It has many features which I know my students and I will benefit from.
1. WB Online is more superior to WB Print in the sense that it allows for various students to research on the same topic at any given time, without having to wait for the resource to be available.
2. It comes in three versions which cater to users of different reading levels.
3. All versions can be accessed from the same site. This eliminates the need to purchase different sets of WB for their library for the students and teachers use.
4. Its multi-media function is definitely very engaging - it has sound capability, very visually appealing, and it allows for its users to make data input (i.e., article search, interactive maps).
5. The site's content is constantly being updated and made relevant.
6. There are helpline and online tutorial guides, which first time users can access so as to help them navigate the system.
and the list goes on ...
In this day and age when people, particularly our young students, are becoming more and more technologically involved, online databases are similarly increasing in use and popularity. They are highly accessible from school and home (provided that internet is not down) , user-friendly and is free to access (through our school districts). They are different types of databases and it's just a matter of figuring out which one would best meet our needs.
If you can, take a look at some of the other on-line encyclopedias for comparative purposes. It's interesting.
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