CST 363 - Week 1

Relational database tables and spreadsheets look similar with both having rows and columns.  What are some important differences between the two?

Databases are designed to store and retrieve information. While database tables and spreadsheets may appear similar, the way in which data is managed is relational, meaning that it can be cross referenced and linked to one another. In a spreadsheet, data is typically stored within the individual cell and generally more widely used as a more simple means of doing basic functions. 

Installing and configuration a database and learning how to use it is more complicated that just reading and writing data to a file.  What are some important reasons that makes a database a useful investment of time?

One important factor is the way in which the data's integrity is maintained through a database. Additionally, it utilizes queries to obtain specific information to be used as needed. 

What do you want to learn in this course that you think will be useful in your future career? 

Learning more about databases is beneficial in that it can help with future employment opportunities in data analysis and just with working with SQL in general. I'd like to learn more about databases in general and how to better utilize and develop queries.