CGS 2542
Database Concepts for Microcomputers
Online

Professor Rosalyn R. Amaro

Office: B242 (hours posted on office door)

Phone: 381-3672

Email: ramaro@fccj.edu

Website: http://web.fccj.org/~ramaro

Course Prerequisite: CGS 1060, CGS 1100 or CGS 1570
Course Description:

This course is aimed at familiarizing students with the uses and advantages of databases. Several database application projects are designed to build familiarity with designing and maintaining databases. Extensive emphasis is given to query design and implementation, custom and automated forms, custom and automated reports, macros, and the design and construction of a new user interface. This course is taught using Microsoft Access 2007.

Course Text:

New Perspectives Series Microsoft Access 2007 Comprehensive;
Adamski/Finnegan; ISBN 978-1-4239-0589-9; Course Technology Publishing, 2008.

Course Supplies:

Purchase one high memory flash drive for storing lab and project assignments. Assignments will be available online and will be submitted online using Blackboard. Assignments may be uploaded on or before scheduled due dates, but will not be accepted late.

Grades:
A = 90-100 B = 80-89 C = 70-79 D = 60-69 F = 59 or below

Tests:

Three tests will be given: one for Level I Tutorials, one for Level II Tutorials, and one for Level III Tutorials. The average of the three tests will represent 50% of your final grade. Tests will be available online using SAM (Skills Assessment Manager) software. You will need a special access code to use this software. SAM Codes may be purchased separately at the campus bookstores or purchased with the textbook bundle.

Topical Course Outline

Topical course outline (class schedule) in calendar format is available under separate link.

Learning Outcomes:

· Learn database terminology

· Learn to design and implement databases using Microsoft Access

· Create tables using the wizard, design view or templates

· Develop query subsets using the QBE window and wizard

· Develop forms using design view, wizard or custom formats

· Develop reports using design view or wizard

· Develop data access pages for the Web

· Revise existing modules

· Create and/or revise macros to increase efficiency

· Automate common tasks by developing new user interfaces

· Be aware of security features

· Use common database utilities

Project:

A comprehensive project on a topic of your own choosing that will be designed and created by you following specific instructions (which will be given later). The grade for the project will represent 20% of your final grade.

Attendance:

Attendance is determined by regular log on to the Blackboard site. Students who do not log on regularly and who do not submit assignments, tests, and project in a timely manner will be given a grade of FN – Failure for Non-attendance. Visit www.fccj.edu, to locate the last day to withdraw from this class without penalty.

Make-up tests:

If you miss an exam, it is not automatic that you are allowed to make it up at your convenience. You will have prior notification on all exams; therefore, make every attempt take exams before the expiration date.

Academic Dishonesty:

Any student suspected or caught copying and/or swapping files, papers, software, etc. will be given a grade of F for the course.

Homework:

Assignments are listed below. You will need additional time outside of class to complete the assignments. Class time will be used to initially introduce you to the topic at hand and will involve intensive hands-on sessions. The assignments will be averaged together and that average will represent 30% of your final grade.

Homework Assignments	Case Numbers
Level I - Overview of Databases including the table, form query and report objects; (covers tutorials 1 thru 4)	Complete Case 2 – In tutorials 1, 2, 3, and 4
Level II – Creating relationships between objects, designing advanced queries, customizing forms and reports; integrating with the Web and other programs; pivot tables and pivot charts; creating Hyperlinks (covers tutorials 5-8)	Complete Case 2 - In tutorials 5, 6, and 7
Level III - Creating action queries, macros, and switchboards; (covers tutorials 9, 10, portions of tutorials 11 and 12)	Complete Case 2 - For tutorials 8, 9, and 10