Section 3.1 – Databases – TestOut

Objective: 

This section introduces you to databases and gives you practice using a relational database management system. After finishing this section, you should be able to:

  • Describe the purposes of a relational database.
  • Define basic relational database terminology, including fields, records, primary keys, foreign keys, and one-to-many relationships.
  • Describe the basic functions of a non-relational database.
  • Describe the purpose of a database management system.
  • Use Microsoft Access to explore database objects and create table relationships.

Links:

Key Terms:

  • Database A structured set of data held in a computer, usually in a way that that is accessible in multiple ways.
  • Relational Database A database that is structured to recognize relationships between items of information.
  • Table A container in a relational database that is comprised of fields (columns) and records (rows).
  • Field A single attribute of each record in a table.
  • Record A single instance of an object stored in a database table.
  • Primary Key A field in a table that uniquely identifies a row.
  • Foreign Key A field in a second table that matches the primary key in another table.
  • Query A method of asking questions about the data stored in a database.
  • Form A graphical interface that allows users to query a database by filling in information on the form.
  • Report An easy-to-read listing of the results of a query.
  • Structured Query Language (SQL) A computer language used by most relational databases for creating queries.
  • Structured Data Data that can be divided into discrete categories.
  • Unstructured Data Data that doesn’t follow a clear pattern.
  • Semi-Structured Data Data that has some discrete categories but also other information that doesn’t follow a clear pattern.
  • Database Management System (DBMS) Software that allows users to define, manipulate, retrieve, and manage data stored in a database. Examples are Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle Database, MySQL, and Microsoft Access.

Topics Discussed:

  • What databases do you interact with in your everyday life?
  • What are the advantages to storing data in a relational database? Are there disadvantages?
  • What is the purpose of a database management system?

Assignment:

  1. Access the TestOut Courseware through the provided link.
  2. Study Section 3.1: Databases, and achieve a score of 80% or higher on the 14 question Exam to complete the Section.

Assigned: December 4th, 2019
Teacher Pacing Due Date: December 6th, 2019