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Define each of the following terms:
a. Data
b. Field
c. Record
d. File Data: Raw facts, or facts that have not yet been processed to reveal their meaning to the end user
Field: A character or group of characters (alphabetic or numeric) that has a specific meaning; a field is used to define and store data
Record: A logically connected set of one or more fields that describes a person, place, or thing
File: A collection of related records; for example, a file might contain data about the students current enrolled at Gigantic University
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What is data redundancy, and which characteristics of the file system can lead to it? Data redudancy: Exists when the same data is stored unnecessarily at different places
Characteristics: Poor data security, Data inconsistency, Data-entry errors, Data integrity problems
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What is data independence, and why is it lacking in file systems? Data independence:
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What is a DBMS, and what are its functions? DBMS: Database Management System
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What is structural independence, and why is it important? Structural independence:
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Explain the differences among data, information, and a database. Data:
Information:
Database:
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What is the role of a DBMS, and what are its advantages? What are its disadvantages? Role of DBMS:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
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List and describe the different types of databases. |
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What are the main components of a database system? |
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What is metadata? Metadata:
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Explain why database design is important. |
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What are the potential costs of implementing a database system? |
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Use examples to compare and contrast unstructured and structured data. Which type is more prevalent in a typical business environment? |
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What are some basic database functions that a spreadsheet cannot perform> |
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What common problems do a collection of spreadsheets created by end users share with the typical file system? |
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Explain the significance of the loss of direct, hands-on access to business data that end users experienced with the advent of computerized data repositories. |
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Explain why the cost of ownership may be lower with a cloud database that with a traditional, company database. |
