IBM COBOL Data and File Management

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/cobol-data-file-management

Introduction

### Course Review: IBM COBOL Data and File Management If you're looking to deepen your understanding of COBOL and enhance your ability to manage data and files in the COBOL environment, the **IBM COBOL – Data and File Management** course on Coursera is an outstanding opportunity. This course is designed for both beginners and individuals looking to solidify their knowledge of COBOL, especially in the context of data management and file handling. #### Course Overview The course begins with a warm welcome and an overview of the objectives you will accomplish throughout the modules. COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) remains a critical language in many legacy systems, particularly in the banking and finance sectors. This course provides you with the foundational skills necessary for working effectively with COBOL and handling data in a mainframe environment. #### Detailed Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Introduction to COBOL Data Fundamentals** - In this first module, you will be introduced to the essential elements of COBOL code. This includes learning how to identify various COBOL language elements, their usage in programming, and understanding the different divisions present within a COBOL program. By the end of this module, you'll have a solid grasp of common COBOL commands, which are crucial for your programming journey. 2. **Working with COBOL Data** - Next, the course delves into the practical aspects of working with COBOL data. This module covers the tools you will be using, such as VSCode and Zowe components, along with key concepts like the COBOL Command Line Interface (CLI), Job Entry Subsystem (JES), and Job Control Language (JCL) for managing files and data effectively. By the end of this part of the course, you will feel comfortable navigating and utilizing these tools in a COBOL environment. 3. **Handling Files in COBOL** - In the fourth module, the focus shifts to handling files within COBOL. You will learn about records, blocks, and the various organizational and storage concepts that underpin COBOL file management. This knowledge is essential for dealing with data in a structured way, allowing for efficient data processing and retrieval. 4. **Working with Relational Databases and Mainframe Data** - The fifth module brings you into the realm of relational databases and how they interact with COBOL. You will explore the basics of relational data, hear about fundamental Db2 topics, and learn about COBOL data interfaces. This module is particularly beneficial as it bridges the gap between traditional COBOL programming and modern database management, an area that is increasingly important in today’s data-centric world. 5. **Completion and Next Steps** - As the course concludes, you will receive congratulations for completing the modules and a review of the course objectives. This wrap-up will also introduce next steps for further learning or application of your newfound skills. #### Conclusion and Recommendations Overall, the **IBM COBOL – Data and File Management** course is a well-structured and informative program that covers essential topics you need to master for effective COBOL programming and data management. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, making it suitable for beginners as well as those looking to refresh their skills. If you work in or plan to enter sectors such as finance, insurance, or any organization that relies on legacy systems, this course is highly recommended. You'll gain not only technical skills but also insights into managing COBOL data and relational databases, making you a valuable asset in any development team. So, whether you're new to programming, aiming to switch careers, or simply looking to add a valuable skill set to your repertoire, enrolling in this course will be a significant step toward achieving your professional goals. Let’s get started with your COBOL journey today!

Syllabus

Welcome to IBM COBOL - Data and File Management

In the first module of this course, we will welcome everyone to the course, present the course objectives, and define other pertinent course details.

In the second module of the course, we will describe the fundamental elements of COBOL code. By the end of this module, you will identify COBOL language elements and their usage(s) within a program; define divisions within a COBOL program and their usages(s); and list common COBOL commands.

In the third module of the course, we will describe the process of working with COBOL data. By the end of this module, you will define VSCode, Zowe components, and mainframe extensions; describe using COBOL command line interface (CLI); and describe JES and JCL for COBOL data and file management.

In the fourth module of the course, we will describe handling COBOL files. By the end of this module, you will be able to describe records, explain blocks, and list organization and storage concepts.

In the fifth module of the course, we will describe relational databases in a COBOL context. By the end of this module, you will be able to describe the fundamentals of relational data; define fundamental Db2 topics and concepts; list COBOL data interfaces.

In this module, we'll congratulate everyone for completing the course, present the completed course objectives, and define other pertinent course details and next steps.