Add a Database Activity

The Database feature enables both instructors and students to add to and explore a collection of content. This collection can include various types of information like text, images, numbers, URLs, files, and more. It's also possible to extract the entries from one Database and import them into another Database within a new course module, making it useful for future years of study.

Below are several advantages of utilizing this tool:

  • Data Collection: Allows users to create, manage, and share structured sets of data, making it ideal for collaborative data collection.

  • Structured Information: Facilitates the organization of information with customizable templates and fields, ensuring consistency and uniformity.

  • Versatility: Suitable for various tasks like building a glossary, creating resource repositories, or conducting surveys within a course.

  •  Interaction: Encourages interaction as users can contribute, view, and comment on entries, fostering engagement and collaboration.

  • Search and Sorting: Users can easily search, filter, and sort entries, aiding quick access to specific information.

  • Journals: Instructors can generate a weekly group journal, replicated for each week, in which students contribute their reflections to gain access to their peers' submissions. Additionally, they can establish a repository of resources for sharing links to external sites and courses not affiliated with UCSF.
Create a Database Presets Fields Templates Search
Create a Database:
  1. In the top right-hand corner of the page, turn Edit mode on.
  2. In the section where you would like to add an assignment, click Add an activity or resource.
  3. Select Database.

In the General section:

    1. Provide a Name and Description for your database activity.

      A screenshot of the Database settings page from an instructor's point of view.png

    2. The Description can be used to convey important details or direct students to technical assistance.
    3. In the Availability section, set time restrictions using "Available from," "Available to," "Read only from," and "Read-only to" date fields to regulate student access.
    4. Select the checkboxes to enable each date.
    5. Select other database setting options as required.
    6. Once complete, click Save and return to course.

Note: Beside each field, you can click on the help icon for a description of each option provided.

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