Data Bases

Look!

This outline covers Microsoft Access 2000 for Windows. At this point in time, there is no Microsoft Access equivalent for Macintosh. Mac users looking for a good relational database should consider FileMaker Pro.

Topical Outline

Getting Started

What is a Database?
The Importance of Planning
The Basics: Creating an Access Database
All About Access Objects
Field Types in Access
More About Flat-File versus Relational Databases

An Online Tutorial

I highly recommend that you visit Nikkol Bauer's fine tutorial at <http://www.henry.k12.ky.us/tech/training/discdata/>! Ms. Bauer has kindly given me permission to link to her site.

Creating your first database!

the scenario
starting Microsoft Access

Working with Tables

defining the fields
- using prompts in lists
saving the table of field names
entering records

Working with Forms

overview of forms
creating a form using the form wizard
entering data on forms
modifying a form in design view

Working with Queries

overview of queries
using the query wizard
creating a query in design view
calculations in queries

Creating Reports

overview of reports
creating a report using the wizard
modifying a report using design view
printing a report

Database Activities

Try these links to explore what can be done with databases. With thanks to Dr. Andrea Peach!

Spreadsheets and Databases: Although this web site is targeted for use by K-12 teachers, the tutorials and lesson plans may give inspiration to all!

Query and Report Activities: In this exercise you will find a rather large dataset on the Internet, and import it into Access.

There are a number of other data sets posted at this site. Go to http://lib.stat.cmu.edu/DASL/allsubjects.html to view the list of data sets by subject. Pick a subject and explore the data set.