quiz8 #s 1-4

1. Define the term, database, and explain how a database interacts with data

and information.

Database-a collection of data organized in a manner that allows access, retrieval, and use of that data. Database software often called a database management system (DBMS), allows users to create a computerized database; add, modify, and delete the data; sort and retrieve the data; and create forms and reports from the data. Data is a collection of unprocessed items, which can include text, numbers, images, audio, and video. Computers processed data into information. Information is processed data; that is, it is organized, meaningful, and useful. in addition to documents, information can be in the form of audio, images, and video.

2. Describe file maintenance techniques (adding records, modifying records,

deleting records) and validation techniques.

File maintenance refers to the procedures that keep data current. File maintenance procedures include adding records when new data is obtained, modifying records to correct inaccurate data or to update old data with new data, and deleting records when they are no longer are needed.

Validation is the process of comparing data with a set of rules or values to find out if the data is correct. Many programs perform a validity check that analyzes data, either as you enter it or after you enter it, to help ensure that it is correct. Types of validity checks include an alphabetic check, a numeric check, a range check, a consistency check, a completeness check, and a check digit.

3. Discuss the terms character, field, record, and file.

A bit is the smallest unit of data a computer can process. Eight bits grouped together form a byte, and each byte represents a single character, which can be a letter, number, space, punctuation mark or other symbol.

A field is a combination of one or more related characters or bytes and is the smallest unit of data a user accesses.

A record is a group of related fields.

A data file is a collection of related records stored on a storage medium such as a hard disc or optical disc.

4. Discuss the functions common to most database management systems:
data dictionary, file retrieval and maintenance, data security, and backup
and recovery.

With a database management system (DBMS), users can create, access, and manage a computerized database. Most DBMS perform common functions. 
A data dictionary contains data about cache file in the database and cache field within those files. A DBMS offers several methods to retrieve and maintain data, such as query languages, query by example, forms, and report generators. A query language is consists of simple, English-like statements that allow users to specify the data to display, print, or store. A query by example (QBE) has a graphical user interface that assists users with retrieving data. A form is a window on the screen that provides areas for entering or modifying data. A report generator allows users to design a report on the screen, retrieve data into the report design, and display or print the report. A backup is a copy of the database. A log is a listing of activities that change the contents of the database. A  recovery utility uses the logs and/or backups to restore the database.