In addition to helping students analyze data, spreadsheets offer numerous other education advantages:
- Saving time
- Orgazing information
- Supporting “What if” questions
- Increasing motivation for mathematics
- Storing and graphing data
- Helping reveal relationships among data (Roblyer & Doering, 2010)
In fact, the advantages of spreadsheets are so evident that, “there is no longer a need to question the potential for spreadsheets to enhance the quality and experience of learning that is offered to students” (Baker and Sugden 2003). The evidence is clear, spreadsheets and database are beneficial for student learning. Therefore, when considering an activity that involves data analysis or organization of any kind, today’s teachers must realize that using a program like Excel can greatly improve student motivation and understanding.
You can view examples of beneficial spreadsheet and database assignments here.
Resources:
Baker, John and Sugden, Stephen J. (2003) "Spreadsheets in education –The first 25 years," Spreadsheets in Education (eJSiE): Vol. 1: Iss. 1, Article 2. Retrieved online from: http://epublications.bond.edu.au/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1001&context=ejsie
Roblyer, M.D. & Doering Aaron. (2010) Integrating educational technology into teaching, 5th ed. Boston: Pearson