Chapter 10 Learning Objectives

SECTION A

After reading Section A, you should be able to:

• provide a succinct definition of the term “data file”
• explain the difference between a variable-length field and a fixed-length field
• discuss the relationship between an entity and a record
• define the term “database”
• use an entity-relationship diagram to depict each of the following relationships: one-to-one, one-to-many, many-to-many
• list four main types of database models
• provide an example of a hierarchical database
• supply two reasons for the popularity of the relational database

SECTION B

After reading Section B, you should be able to:

• discuss the pros and cons of using word processing (or spreadsheet) software for data management tasks
• explain the advantages and disadvantages of creating your own file management software
• differentiate between the terms “data dependence” and “data independence”
• define the term “DBMS”
• discuss the strengths and weaknesses of using an entry-level DBMS, such as Microsoft Access
• list four reasons for using database server software
• explain how client software communicates with a database
• discuss how dynamic Web publishing might be used to enhance an e-commerce Web site
• outline the relationship between the following components in the dynamic Web publishing process: server-side program, Web server, database server, database, and browser
• explain the relationship between XML and a Web-based database

SECTION C

After reading Section C, you should be able to:

• list the steps necessary in designing a database
• provide an example of each of the following data types: numeric (both real and integer), character, and memo
• explain when you would use character data, date data, and logical data
• supply an example of BLOB data
• describe four methods of preventing data entry errors
• discuss the importance of normalizing a database
• list five characteristics of a well-designed database interface
• explain the purpose of a conversion routine

SECTION D

After reading Section D, you should be able to:

• describe the differences in accessing a database by means of a graphical user interface and a query language interface
• list the features of a Web-based database form
• define the term “Boolean operator”
• explain how “AND,” “OR,” and “NOT” are used in database queries
• describe the function of a wildcard in a database query
• provide an example of both a * wildcard and a ? wildcard
• explain how a query by example (QBE) works
• provide an example of an instance when performing a global update would be appropriate
• differentiate between sorting and indexing a table
• explain the purpose of joining two tables
• list three elements commonly included in a report template
• suggest ways in which information can be effectively presented in a report