Understanding databases

What is this section about?

This section will help you learn how to use a database.

A database is one of three applications that you will learn to use in this unit.

What will I learn?

At the end of this section, you will be able to:

• understand what a database is and how it is made up
• launch an Access database
• edit and format data in an Access database
• save and print out data in an appropriate format
• close down Access.

How long should it take to do this?

You should complete this section in about six to eight hours.

What else do I need?

You will need access to a computer with Microsoft Access installed.

You will need files from the disk IT Core Skills - Intermediate1. You may have already copied these into your own folder on the hard disk.

How will I be assessed on my work in this section?

You will be assessed through a practical assignment. This assignment is likely to be linked to one of your interests or to your studies in other subjects.

Your tutor will give you this assignment when you are ready for it. Your tutor will want to supervise you doing this assignment so that he or she knows that it is your own work.

The assignment will test your ability to do the above tasks well.

You will have an opportunity to be reassessed if you need it.