University computer labs information system : addition of a training database for UCL employees : an honors thesis (HONRS 499)

Abstract

University Computer Labs (UCL) operates 16 computer labs on Ball State campus. The department consists of 1 part-time and 3 full-time staff persons, and approximately 160 student employees. These students are not required to have any knowledge of specific software packages prior to employment. UCL provides training in all necessary software packages to bring the student employees up to a specified level of competence. Student employees are also required to take tests to become certified in at least two new software packages every two semesters. Keeping track of all this information in the past has been very tedious and disorganized.The program that was written as an HONRS 499 thesis project organizes data on training for every student employed by UCL. It keeps track of such information as the date the student was hired, the name of the lab where most of the student's hours are worked, and the status for each software for which training is required. The program was written in Clipper 5.0, a language that is very similar to dBase. This program allows all necessary data to be entered into a database; the data can then be retrieved in a variety of formats, all of which are described in the included User's Guide. There are also options to easily correct errors made in entries, add new employees, and remove employees from the database.This program is an addition to the current Information System utilized by UCL. The Information System consists of a data-gathering program that provides information on the usage level of UCL-operated computer labs, and a program that records inventory and repair information for UCL-owned and operated computer equipment. The training program is a logical addition to this Information System. UCL now has access to the three major aspects of the department: the physical computer equipment, the student clients who utilize the labs, and student employee training information.