Course Aims

• Deepen learners’ understanding of relational database design.

• Teach advanced queries for better data analysis.

• Introduce subforms, calculated fields, and parameter queries.

• Build confidence in automating tasks and improving usability.

Course Outline

Session 1: Designing Relational Databases & Normalization, Advanced Queries – Parameter & Totals Queries

• Recap: tables, primary keys, data types

• Why normalization matters: avoiding redundancy

• Creating multiple related tables (e.g., Customers, Orders)

• Defining one-to-many relationships in the Relationships window

• Referential integrity and cascade options

• Recap of select queries

• Creating parameter queries to prompt users for input

• Using totals queries (GROUP BY, SUM, COUNT, AVG)

• Sorting and grouping data dynamically

• Understanding query joins: inner vs. outer joins

Session 2: Action Queries & Calculated Fields, Enhancing Forms – Subforms & Controls

• Make-table, update, append, and delete queries: what they do & safety tips

• Adding calculated fields in queries (e.g., Price × Quantity)

• Using expressions and built-in functions

• Best practices for using action queries safely (backups)

• Creating subforms for related data display (e.g., Customers & Orders)

• Using combo boxes and list boxes for data selection

• Adding command buttons to forms (e.g., record navigation, open report, run query)

• Applying conditional formatting to controls

Session 3: Grouped & Summary Reports, Mini Project & Automation Basics

• Creating grouped reports by category or date

• Adding totals and summary fields (sums, counts)

• Adding logos, page numbers, and conditional formatting

• Dynamic filtering: opening a report based on form criteria

• Integrating what you’ve built: tables, queries, forms, reports

• Brief intro to macros: automating tasks (e.g., open form, print report)

• Navigation forms and creating a simple user interface

• Mini project: build a relational database that includes at least:

  • Two related tables

  • Two advanced queries

  • One form with a subform

  • One grouped report