In this unit we will look at another powerful use of computers. We have seen that it is possible to convert a computer into a powerful typewriter using a word processor. Also, we can use the computer to store, organize, and sort information or DATA. A DATABASE is much like a filing system in which you can choose the data to be store on each filing card. Some databases have already been designed for specific purposes and others leave the designing to you. In this unit we will look at the following:
• Review the data bases on your disk, including: STATES and PRESIDENTS
• Store, retrieve and sort information in these DATA BASES.
• Create, store, retrieve and sort information in the DATABASE section of AppleWorks
The best way to understand a DATABASE is to use one and see what it does for you. Take a few minutes to examine the two data bases mention above.
SAMPLE DATA BASE FILES
In your AppleWorks folder on the Computer Lit. share point on thetnet.thet.net you should have two documents named STATES and PRESIDENTS.
Double click on the AppleWorks icon found in your AppleWorks folder found on your disk. The icon should look like the one below:
You will see the familiar AppleWorks opening screen and menu. Choose CANCEL since we are not making a new data base yet.
Click on the FILE menu option to open a document and choose OPEN...
You will see a window similar to the one shown below:
Choose the STATES file from this window. You will see a data base of each of the states in the United States with a variety of information about each state. Use the scroll bar to move through the state to examine the information.
Database