Course Description

ITSW 1307 – Introduction to Database -- 3 sem. hrs. (2 lecture, 3 lab, 0 external hours per week)

Introduction to database theory and the practical applications of a database.

TSI Requirement: M2; R0; R2C; W2.

Prerequisites: ITSC 1301 – Introduction to Computers

Lab Fee: $24.

MOS Fee: $50

Course Focus

This course is focused in the creation and maintaining databases.

Learning Outcomes:

Identify database terminology and concepts; plan, define, and design a database; design and generate tables, forms, and reports; and devise and process queries.

Text and References

Adamski, Joseph J., Finnegan, Kathleen T. New Perspectives on Microsoft Office Access 2007, Comprehensive, 2008, ISBN in 10 digit format: 1-4239-0589-X, ISBN in 13 digit format: 978-1-42390-589-9

Textbooks may be purchased at any SWTJC bookstore or through most educational servicing bookstores or on the Internet.

Technology Requirements

Students will be expected to have knowledge of keyboard operations and computer skills. The students will use the Linux / Windows Operating System environments as needed. Students will use the Microsoft Office suite / OpenOffice suite as needed.

Learning Objectives

The following list of learning objectives will be addressed in the course.

1. Develop file management strategies

2. Explore files and folders

3. Explore the programs that comprise Microsoft Office

4. Explore common window elements

5. Use the help system

6. Print a file

7. Exit programs

8. Create a database

9. Learn the guidelines for designing databases and setting field properties

10. Import data from an Excel worksheet

11. Define a relationship between two tables

12. Create a query based on multiple tables

13. Sort data in a query

14. Filter data in a query

15. Specify an exact match condition in a query

16. Use logical operators in queries

17. Export an Access table to an Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML) document and view the document

18. Import a Comma Separated Values (CSV) file as an Access table

19. Import and export XML (eXtendible Markup Language) files

20. Save and run import and export specifications

21. Define relationships between tables

22. Create a macro

23. Run and add actions to macros

24. Use Structured Query Language (SQL) statements

25. Compile and test functions, subroutines, and event procedures

26. Analyze a database's performance

Attendance and punctuality are critical for successful progress in this course. Each student is expected to study two hours outside of class for each hour in class, take an active role in lectures, laboratories, participate fully in group activities, and assume a self-directed approach to completing class work and home work.

Course Evaluation

Your performance will be evaluated by satisfactory mastery of the learning objectives listed above. Four regular exams will be given during the course. The point system below will be used to determine your grade:

After your numerical grade has been calculated, your letter grade will be determined as a percentage of points possible:

Classroom Policies

Plagiarism, the representation of someone else's work as you're own, or cheating on an examination will not be tolerated. Either case will result in a grade of zero on work or examination in question. Two or more infractions will be reported to the Dean of Instructional Services for disciplinary action.

Laboratory assignments are imperative. Students must turn in completed assignments by appropriate deadlines.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement

Any student with a documented disability needing academic adjustments is requested to speak directly to the Counseling Department (see below) as early in the semester (preferable within the first week) as possible. All discussions will remain confidential.

Class Schedule and Office Hour

The class meets for two lecture hours (Monday and Wednesday; 2:00 to 2:50 PM) and three laboratory hours (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday; 1:00 to 1:50 PM) each week at the Del Rio campus in Room 1, at the Eagle Pass campus in room E306, and at the Uvalde campus in room Wagner 6. (Total Contact hours: 80)