L6 Applied GCE ICT - Mr. Jones - Database project

Following the recent publication of a datafile (the 'given set of data') on the new Edxecel GCE site, I am revising the nature of the work we are currently doing. This csv format datafile is called Unit 2 CD Orders and it is in the 6th form folder in the shared area.

You must get a copy of this csv file and import it into a database structure that you have set up with validation. You will need to examine the structure of the data (it is a csv file and can be viewed in Excel) in the file before you create your structure and import it.

All the data is in a single file, and so it will need to be split into two or more tables to create a relational database - so only some of the data will be imported into each table. You may also need to create some extra fields to make the database relational.

The links to the website and example projects have been added to the menu on the right of this screen. You are strongly advised to visit the new website in order to appreciate what is required for this project. In particular, have a look at the example student portfolio for this unit - yours will be very similar but hopefully much better!

Here is an extract of the Mark Band 3 (the highest) criteria from the syllabus to help you understand what needs to be done:

You, the learner
• creates a database structure that is customised to take account of the characteristics of the given set of data and includes some data validation
• carries out extensive testing to ensure that the database functions correctly and efficiently
• imports the data into the database
• uses the facilities of the software to extract valid and meaningful information and identify some significant trends, interpreting output and making recommendations based on it.

The leaner fully evaluates
• the performance of the database
• their own performance, incorporating feedback from others and makes realistic recommendations for improvements.

More details will follow as is necessary. I will be absent from school on Friday and Monday next, and so details of the work to be done in my lessons will be posted here.