Discusses typical uses of databases and data management programs in the classroom; provides a learning plan to teach students how to use databases; lists typical student projects using databases; and presents criteria to help educators choose appropriate database management programs for their classrooms. (MBR)

Discusses three main ways information on a school's software collection may be organized for access by school personnel to maximize its use--annotated lists, keyword database searching, and cataloging for inclusion in card catalog. The basic steps of data collection, storage, and retrieval required for all three methods are outlined. (MBR)