Forms of Database Flat file Hierarchical Relational Computer Studies JSS 3 First Term Lesson Notes Week 8

Subject: Computer Studies

Class: JSS 3
Term: First Term
Week: 8
Age: 13 – 15 years
Topic: Forms of Database

Sub-topic: Types of Databases and Practical Applications

Duration: 40 minutes

Behavioral Objectives:

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Identify and describe different types of databases: flat file, hierarchical, and relational.
2. Demonstrate the ability to prepare a results sheet using a database.
3. Start and open an existing database application.
4. Input, store, and retrieve information within a database application.

Keywords:

• Flat File
• Hierarchical
• Relational
• Database Application

Set Induction:

The teacher asks students if they have ever kept records of their grades or activities. This leads to discussing how databases help organize such information effectively.

Entry Behavior:

Students have prior knowledge of databases and their terminologies from previous lessons.

Learning Resources and Materials:

• Samples of different database types (diagrams)
• A computer with database software (e.g., Microsoft Access)
• Projector for demonstration

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge:

This lesson builds on students’ understanding of databases from previous lessons, expanding their knowledge to different types of databases and practical applications.

Embedded Core Skills:

• Technical skills
• Data organization
• Problem-solving

Reference Books:

• Lagos State Approved Computer Studies Textbook
• Online resources on database types

CONTENT

Types of Databases

1. Flat File Database:
   A flat file database stores data in a single table, making it simple but limited in complexity. Each record is stored as a single text file, with fields separated by delimiters (like commas or tabs).
2. Hierarchical Database:
   A hierarchical database organizes data in a tree-like structure, where each record has a single parent and can have multiple children. This structure is suitable for data with a clear hierarchy (e.g., organizational charts).
3. Relational Database:
   A relational database consists of multiple tables that are related to each other through common fields. This type allows for more complex data relationships and is commonly used in modern applications.

Practical Applications

• Preparing a Results Sheet Using a Database:
  Students will create a results sheet that displays student names, subjects, and scores in a database format.
• Starting and Opening an Existing Database Application:
  Students will learn how to launch database software and access pre-existing databases.
• Inputting, Storing, and Retrieving Information:
  Students will practice entering data into the database, saving it, and retrieving it later for review or analysis.

Evaluation

1. A __________ database stores data in a single table.
   a) relational
   b) flat file
   c) hierarchical
   Answer: b) flat file
2. In a __________ database, data is organized in a tree structure.
   a) flat file
   b) hierarchical
   c) relational
   Answer: b) hierarchical
3. The __________ database allows multiple tables to relate to each other.
   a) relational
   b) flat file
   c) key
   Answer: a) relational
4. Flat file databases are best for __________ data.
   a) complex
   b) simple
   c) multi-table
   Answer: b) simple
5. A hierarchical database structure resembles a __________.
   a) table
   b) tree
   c) spreadsheet
   Answer: b) tree
6. The main advantage of a relational database is its __________.
   a) simplicity
   b) complexity
   c) flexibility
   Answer: c) flexibility
7. When preparing a results sheet, you will use a __________.
   a) spreadsheet
   b) database
   c) word processor
   Answer: b) database
8. You can input data into a database through a __________.
   a) field
   b) key
   c) record
   Answer: a) field
9. To save data in a database, you need to __________ it.
   a) delete
   b) retrieve
   c) store
   Answer: c) store
10. The process of accessing previously entered data is called __________.
    a) inputting
    b) storing
    c) retrieving
    Answer: c) retrieving
11. A __________ database can handle complex data relationships.
    a) flat file
    b) hierarchical
    c) relational
    Answer: c) relational
12. In a flat file database, each record is stored as a __________.
    a) table
    b) single text file
    c) spreadsheet
    Answer: b) single text file
13. Hierarchical databases are useful for data with a clear __________.
    a) format
    b) hierarchy
    c) relationship
    Answer: b) hierarchy
14. To start a database application, you usually click on the __________ icon.
    a) save
    b) start
    c) application
    Answer: c) application
15. A results sheet displays students’ names and their __________.
    a) grades
    b) hobbies
    c) addresses
    Answer: a) grades

Class Activity Discussion

Forms of Database Flat file Hierarchical Relational

Flat File Database is a database designed around a single table, it puts all database information in one table or list with fields to represent all parameters.

The classic example of a flat file database is a basic name-and-address list, where the database consists of a small, fixed number of fields: Name, Address, and phone Number.

Another example is a simple HTML table, consisting of rows and columns. This type of database is routinely encountered, although often not expressly recognized as a database.

Relational Database is a database that group data using common attributes found in data set. It can also be described as a collection of relations that are frequently considered to be part of the database, as they help to organize and structure the data, in addition to forcing the database to conform to a set of requirements.

For example, a set containing all students coming resuming from Lagos in the school can be group be their classes, sex, surname etc. Such a group uses the relational model. THE software used to do the grouping is called a relational database management system.

The Structured Query Language forms the core of all relational databases. It provides a uniform interface to Oracle, SQL Server, Access and other relational databases.

Forms of Database

There are three Forms of Database, the Flat file, Hierarchical Relational, and the Network. Each form has its own purpose, function, and use.

The Flat file is the simplest form of database. It consists of a single table with fields to represent all parameters. The classic example of a flat file database is a name-and-address list. Another example is a simple HTML table, consisting of rows and columns. This type of database is routinely encountered, although often not expressly recognized as a database.

The Hierarchical Relational form of database is more complex. It groups data using common attributes found in the data. The most common example of this form is the family tree. In a family tree, each person is represented by a node, and the relationship between each person is represented by the links between nodes.

The Network form of database is the most complex. It consists of multiple tables with fields to represent all parameters. The most common example of this form is a social network. In a social network, each person is represented by a node, and the relationship between each person is represented by the links between nodes.

Evaluation:

1. There are ___________________ Forms of Database,
2. Mention the three types of database form
3. What is the use of the flat file?
4. Mention two uses of the Hierarchical relationship.
5. The __________ form is the most complex of the database form.
6. _______ database form consists of multiple tables with fields to represent all parameters.
7. The most common example of ________ database form is a social network.
8. The Network form of database is the most ________
9. The ___________ database form consists of multiple tables with fields to represent all parameters.

Assignment

1. What is a flat file database?
   A flat file database stores data in a single table, making it simple to use.
2. How does a hierarchical database organize data?
   It organizes data in a tree-like structure with parent-child relationships.
3. What is a relational database?
   A relational database contains multiple related tables, allowing complex data relationships.
4. What are the advantages of using a relational database?
   It offers flexibility in managing data and can handle more complex relationships.
5. Can a flat file database handle complex data?
   No, it is best suited for simple data storage.
6. What is an example of a practical application of a database?
   Preparing a results sheet for students is a common application.
7. How do you input data into a database?
   You enter data into designated fields within the database.
8. What does it mean to retrieve information from a database?
   It means accessing saved data for use or review.
9. Can hierarchical databases represent complex relationships?
   No, they are limited to parent-child structures.
10. What is the first step to use a database application?
    The first step is to start and open the database software.
11. Why is storing data important in a database?
    Storing data ensures it can be accessed and used later.
12. What tool can help in preparing a results sheet?
    A database application can be used for preparing results sheets.
13. What type of database is best for organizing large amounts of related data?
    A relational database is best for this purpose.
14. How do you save data in a database?
    You click on the save option after inputting the data.
15. What is the purpose of fields in a database?
    Fields are used to store individual pieces of information within a record.

 Evaluation Questions:

1. Define a flat file database.
2. Describe how a hierarchical database is structured.
3. What distinguishes a relational database from other types?
4. Give an example of where you might use a flat file database.
5. How do you prepare a results sheet in a database?
6. Explain how to start a database application.
7. What are the steps to input data into a database?
8. Why is it important to retrieve information from a database?
9. What limitations does a flat file database have?
10. Describe a practical use case for a relational database.

Conclusion:

Understanding the different forms of databases, including flat file, hierarchical, and relational, is crucial for effective data management. Practical skills in preparing results sheets and operating database applications are essential for students in today’s digital world.