An Evaluator's Guide to Using DB MASTER: A Microcomputer Based File Management Program. Research on Evaluation Program, Paper and Report Series No. 91

Abstract

Ways a microcomputer can be used to establish and maintain an evaluation database and types of data management features possible on a microcomputer are described in this report, which contains step-by-step procedures and numerous examples for establishing a database, manipulating data, and designing and printing reports. Following a brief introduction, the guide is organized around three sets of concepts needed to understand what databases are and how to use them: (1) setting up a file, (2) using a database, and (3) generating reports from the information in a database. An extensive appendix, included with this document, contains a series of tutorials which provide specific information on the various features of the program. Divided into 14 sections such as getting started, adding records, speeding data entry, and setting up reports, the tutorials summarize the discussion in this presenter's guide and present more detailed information on such features as long coded descriptions. The DB Master program requires an Apple II or Apple II Plus computer with 48K RAM memory, Applesoft, from two to four disk drives, and the DOS 3.3 16-sector disk operating system. (LMM)