Course Aims

• Introduce students to fundamental database concepts and why databases are useful.

• Equip students to navigate the Microsoft Access interface confidently.

• Teach how to design and create tables, queries, forms, and reports.

• Enable students to build a simple relational database project from scratch.

Course Outline

Session 1: Introduction to Databases & Microsoft Access, Creating & Designing Tables

• What is a database? Key concepts: tables, fields, records, primary keys

• Overview of relational databases

• Navigating the Access interface: ribbon, navigation pane, views

• Creating a blank database and saving it

• Planning a simple database (brainstorming exercise)

• Understanding data types: text, number, date/time, yes/no, etc.

• Setting field properties and input masks

• Defining a primary key

• Creating lookup fields and validation rules

• Entering sample data

Session 2: Sorting, Filtering & Simple Queries, Creating Forms for Data Entry

• Using Sort & Filter tools in Datasheet view

• Introduction to queries: what they are and why they matter

• Creating select queries with Query Design

• Using criteria to filter data (e.g., show students born after a certain year)

• Saving and running queries

• Why use forms? Benefits for users

• Creating a simple form using Form Wizard and Form Design

• Adding, moving, and resizing fields and labels

• Adding titles, logos, and simple formatting

• Entering and editing data through the form

Session 3: Creating Basic Reports, Bringing It All Together – Mini Project

• What are reports? Use cases: printing, sharing summaries

• Using the Report Wizard to create quick reports

• Grouping and sorting data in reports

• Formatting reports: headers, footers, titles

• Exporting reports to PDF

• Review: tables, queries, forms, and reports

• Building a small database project (e.g., Library Books, Inventory, or Contacts)

• Linking two related tables with a relationship

• Final practice: create one form, one query, and one report based on project data

• Sharing and discussing projects