Advance Access (Project Base)

Course Description:

This advanced course focuses on in-depth knowledge and skills for working with Microsoft Access databases. A project-based approach is used to help students develop practical, real-world solutions through hands-on experience. The course covers advanced features, tools, and techniques in Access, including automation, data modeling, custom forms, reports, and integrating with other software. Students will complete a comprehensive project that demonstrates their ability to design, develop, and manage Access databases efficiently.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

Design and build complex relational databases in Microsoft Access.
Master advanced data management techniques, including queries, automation, and macros.
Integrate Access with other Microsoft Office tools, such as Excel and Outlook.
Develop custom forms and reports to streamline data input and output.
Apply advanced VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) programming to enhance database functionality.
Complete a project that addresses a real-world data management challenge, demonstrating proficiency in all aspects of Access.

Course Structure:

The course will be taught through a series of hands-on projects, theoretical lessons, and practical exercises. Each module will build upon the last, providing a cumulative learning experience that culminates in a final project.

Course Modules:

Module 1: Introduction to Advanced Access Concepts

Overview of Microsoft Access
Data types and relationships (one-to-many, many-to-many)
Database design principles and normalization
Advanced querying techniques (subqueries, nested queries)

Module 2: Designing Complex Forms and Reports

Creating user-friendly forms for data input
Customizing forms with subforms, combo boxes, and command buttons
Designing professional reports for efficient data presentation
Using conditional formatting and grouping in reports

Module 3: Query Optimization and Advanced Techniques

Advanced SQL queries (joins, unions, and advanced filtering)
Creating and using parameter queries
Using aggregate functions and grouping for analysis
Query optimization strategies for large datasets

Module 4: Automating Database Tasks

Using macros to automate repetitive tasks
Creating custom actions and automating form navigation
Advanced VBA programming for database automation
Error handling and debugging techniques in VBA

Module 5: Database Integration and Sharing

Importing and exporting data (Excel, CSV, and other formats)
Integrating Access with Microsoft Excel and Outlook
Sharing databases through Access Web Apps and cloud services
Security features: encrypting databases, user-level permissions, and role management

Module 6: Capstone Project: Designing a Comprehensive Database Solution

Students will work on a real-world database project from start to finish
Develop a fully functional, custom Access database tailored to a specific business, educational, or research need
Present the final project to peers and instructors for feedback

Assessment & Evaluation:

Weekly Assignments: Hands-on projects (40%)
Midterm Exam: Knowledge-based test covering all core features of Access (15%)
Capstone Project: Final project where students design and implement a custom database solution (40%)
Participation & Discussion: Engagement in class discussions, peer reviews, and group activities