Spreadsheets have a lot to offer in the Physics classroom. Using a spreadsheet to collect data from an experiment allows students to easily perform calculations automatically. Especially in labs that require many repeated calculations, this is a major time-saver, allowing students to focus on concepts rather than manual calculations. I have students use a spreadsheet (most use Microsoft Excel) in nearly every lab report they do. More than just teaching content and helping students analyze data, though, using spreadsheets in class teaches valuable tech skills. I acknowledge that not all (or even many!) of my students will pursue Physics professionally, but it is certain that nearly all of them will use spreadsheets in their jobs or at home. Teaching students how to use a spreadsheet effectively prepares them for the future and also teaches organization and valuable problem-solving skills.
The use of database software in instruction is newer to me. I have not used any database software or even accessed databases in classroom activities. I have used a database program for grade reporting, but I did not have to contribute information to it (except students' grades) or understand its inner workings. Databases often operate a little more behind the scenes (compared to spreadsheets) and can help students see how information is stored, organized, and retrieved. Since our mind works like a database by categorizing information in records, so to speak, actually creating a digital database of information might help students process and recall that information later. Examples might be creating a database of historical figures, the Elements, works of art, or math theorems.
To see how other educators are using spreadsheets and databases in lesson plans, I reviewed two lessons, one for each technology, and you can read my thoughts in the post below.