Cooperative learning approach to database group projects: Integrating theory and practice

This paper describes the use of cooperative learning concepts in support of an introductory database management course that emphasizes the theoretical and practical aspects of database application development. The database practice is realized through the use of cooperative group projects. The course project is divided into three main phases, involving requirements analysis and conceptual design, relational database mapping and prototyping, and database system implementation using Microsoft Access. Students are required to actively participate in each phase, with students assuming different roles in each phase to allow them to experience different leadership responsibilities. This paper also describes a cooperative learning approach to integrating the practical use of a database product into the theoretical curriculum of a database management course. The paper concludes with a detailed evaluation of the group projects effect on the student's performance in the class.