Catalog description:

Introduction to the use of COBOL as a language for solving business problems, which process large amounts of data. Students design, write, and implement COBOL programs. Not open to CSA majors.

Prerequisite: None.Course Objectives:

• Master COBOL syntax and structure.
• Write COBOL programs in a clear, concise, correct, and well-structured format.
• Understand and use required programming practices vis-a-vis design, coding, and documentation.
• Understand and write programs for the common COBOL applications discussed.

Required topics (approximate weeks allocated):

• Essentials of computer and programming (1)
  • computer hardware: memory, CPU, secondary storage
  • computer user interaction
  • steps of creating and executing programs
• Elements of COBOL (1.5)
  • COBOL program structure (purposes divisions, sections, and paragraphs)
  • COBOL syntax and CBL notation
  • program file name and physical file connection
  • overview of essential COBOL control structures
• Data division (1.5)
  • defining independent variables and file record structures
  • picture specifications and editing
  • redefining and renaming data fields
  • data manipulation
• Problem solving (3)
  • algorithm development and modularization
  • structure chart and graphical representation of algorithms (flowchart)
  • pseudo code
  • fundamental algorithm development structures: sequence, iteration, and selection
• Procedure division (3)
  • calculation statements
  • I/O statements
  • control structures of COBOL
  • sequential file processing in COBOL
  • algorithm implementation using COBOL
• Program development (1)
  • concepts of functional specification, analysis, and design
  • design considerations for program development (concepts of cohesion and coupling)
  • program debugging and testing
• Table processing (1)
  • array concept
  • use of arrays in problem solving
• File processing (2)
  • COBOL SORT statement
  • further sequential file processing examples in COBOL
• Exams/review (1)

Subprograms (optional)