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IBM COBOL Data and File Management

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3.7

Based on 40 ratings

, see reviews

Erik Herman

Welcome to IBM COBOL – Data and File Management! By enrolling in this course, you are taking a big step in increasing your knowledge and hands on experience with IBM COBOL data and file management. In this course, you will learn the fundamental elements of COBOL code. You will learn the process of working with COBOL data. You will learn handling COBOL files. This course also relational databases in a mainframe, COBOL context. So let’s get started!

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What's inside

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.

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Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Teaches fundamental elements of COBOL code

Develops the process of working with COBOL data

Develops handling of COBOL files

Examines relational databases in a COBOL context

Introduces VSCode, Zowe, and mainframe extensions

Describes Db2 topics and concepts

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Reviews summary

Foundational cobol for mainframe professionals

According to learners, this course offers a solid introduction to IBM COBOL data and file management, particularly for those working with mainframe systems. Many find the explanations clear and well-structured, making complex topics accessible. It is seen as highly relevant for a mainframe career, covering essential aspects like file handling, JES/JCL, and Db2 integration. While generally positive, some students noted that the lectures can be dry and wished for more hands-on labs or interactive exercises to enhance engagement.

Includes relevant modern tools alongside classic concepts.

"The modules on VSCode and Zowe were a nice touch, showing modern tooling alongside classic concepts."

"I learned how to define VSCode, Zowe components, and mainframe extensions, which was very current."

"The course covered using the COBOL command line interface (CLI), which is practical for today's environment."

Highly relevant for professionals in mainframe environments.

"I appreciated the clear explanations of mainframe concepts and how they relate to COBOL."

"I especially liked how it integrated Db2 concepts. It's a great stepping stone for a mainframe career."

"I found the section on JES and JCL particularly useful for understanding the mainframe environment."

"It serves as a good reference for those working with legacy systems."

Provides a comprehensive and clear introduction to COBOL.

"This course provided a solid introduction to COBOL data and file management."

"Absolutely essential for anyone starting with COBOL on IBM mainframes."

"A very comprehensive course on COBOL data, files, and mainframe integration. It fills a critical gap in online learning for this specific area."

"Good foundational course. The instructor clearly knows the material."

Some aspects of presentation could be improved.

"Adequate for getting started, but the production quality could be improved. Sometimes the audio was inconsistent."

"I felt that the visuals were just basic slides and could be more dynamic."

Lectures can be dry; more hands-on activities desired.

"I wished for more hands-on labs or interactive exercises to truly solidify the concepts."

"While the information is there, I found the presentation quite basic. The lectures felt like reading slides."

"Sometimes the content is accurate but a bit dry."

"I needed to supplement with external resources for a deeper understanding."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in IBM COBOL Data and File Management with these activities:

Read "COBOL Programming" by Gary DeWard Brown

Show steps

Gain a comprehensive understanding of COBOL programming, including data and file management concepts, by reading this recommended book.

View zOS JCL (Job Control Language) on Amazon

Show steps

Acquire a copy of "COBOL Programming" by Gary DeWard Brown.
Read through the book, focusing on chapters related to data and file management.
Take notes and highlight important concepts for future reference.

Work through COBOL coding exercises

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Reinforce your understanding of COBOL data and file management concepts by practicing with coding exercises.

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Find online COBOL coding exercises or create your own.
Work through the exercises, testing your knowledge and identifying areas for improvement.
Review your solutions and identify patterns and common pitfalls.

Participate in a COBOL study group

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Engage with fellow students and discuss COBOL data and file management concepts to enhance your understanding.

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Find or create a COBOL study group with classmates.
Meet regularly to discuss course material, share knowledge, and work through problems together.
Prepare for study group sessions by reviewing the material beforehand.

Show all three activities

Career center

Learners who complete IBM COBOL Data and File Management will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Mainframe Software Engineer

Mainframe data is the backbone of any enterprise organization. With IBM COBOL – Data and File Management, you can excel as a Mainframe Software Engineer. You'll learn to work with COBOL data and files, essential skills for building and maintaining mainframe software.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mainframe Software Engineer

COBOL Programmer

Integrating data and file management in mainframe systems is essential for a COBOL Programmer. We recommend IBM COBOL – Data and File Management to establish a foundation in data-focused programming. The course teaches the creation and maintenance of COBOL programs, giving you a competitive edge for this programming role.

See salaries and explore the career path for COBOL Programmer

Software Developer

Mastering data management is essential for Software Developers. By taking IBM COBOL – Data and File Management, you'll enhance your skills in working with COBOL data and files. This course will help you build robust and efficient software applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Database Administrator

Database Administrators deal with relational databases on a daily basis. If you pursue this career path, IBM COBOL – Data and File Management can provide a strong foundation in relational database fundamentals from a COBOL perspective. With this knowledge, you can effectively manage and maintain database systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts need a deep understanding of data management. IBM COBOL – Data and File Management can provide you with a solid foundation in COBOL data, files, and databases. This knowledge will enable you to effectively analyze, design, and implement IT systems that meet business needs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Data Engineer

Data Engineers require a solid foundation in data management. IBM COBOL – Data and File Management can help you build a strong base in this field. The course covers concepts like data integration, data quality, and data security, equipping you with the skills to design, implement, and maintain data pipelines.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer

Information Security Analyst

Data security is paramount for Information Security Analysts. Taking IBM COBOL – Data and File Management can enhance your understanding of data security concepts. The course covers topics like data encryption, data access control, and data breach prevention. With this knowledge, you can effectively protect data from unauthorized access and cyber threats.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Data Analyst

Data management is essential for Data Analysts. By taking IBM COBOL – Data and File Management, you'll develop a solid foundation in this domain. This course teaches you how to work with COBOL data and files, enabling you to effectively analyze and interpret data to extract valuable insights.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Cloud Architect

Cloud Architects need a solid understanding of data management. With IBM COBOL – Data and File Management, you'll gain foundational knowledge in data storage, data security, and data integration in the cloud. This course can help you design and implement scalable and secure cloud-based data management solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Architect

IT Consultant

IT Consultants need to understand data management to advise clients effectively. IBM COBOL – Data and File Management provides a solid foundation in this area. The course covers key concepts like data modeling, data governance, and data security. With this knowledge, you can help clients optimize their data management strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Consultant

Enterprise Architect

Enterprise Architects need a comprehensive understanding of data management. IBM COBOL – Data and File Management can provide you with a strong foundation in this field. You'll learn about data integration, data governance, and data security. This knowledge will enable you to design and implement enterprise-wide data management solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Enterprise Architect

Data Architect

Data Architects manage and maintain the structure and integrity of data systems. IBM COBOL – Data and File Management can help you develop foundational knowledge in data management. The course covers essential concepts like data modeling, data integration, and data security, providing you with a solid base for this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Architect

Data Scientist

Data manipulation and analysis are crucial for Data Scientists. Take IBM COBOL – Data and File Management to reinforce your data management skills. The course provides a solid understanding of COBOL data, files, and databases. With this foundation, you can effectively gather, clean, and analyze data to derive valuable insights.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

IT Manager

Data management is critical for IT Managers. IBM COBOL – Data and File Management can help you gain expertise in this area. The course covers key concepts like data governance, data security, and data strategy. With this knowledge, you can make informed decisions about data management and ensure the efficient use of data within your organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Manager

Business Analyst

Understanding data and file management is vital for Business Analysts. By taking IBM COBOL – Data and File Management, you will gain the skills to analyze data, define requirements, and develop solutions for business challenges. These skills are essential for driving successful data-driven initiatives.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in IBM COBOL Data and File Management.

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Creating IBM z/OS Cloud Services

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This official IBM publication serves as a comprehensive reference for COBOL programmers, providing detailed information on the language's syntax, semantics, and best practices, making it an invaluable resource for both new and experienced COBOL developers.

Creating IBM Z/Os Cloud Services

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zOS JCL (Job Control Language)

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Delves into COBOL development in the z/OS environment, offering detailed guidance on utilizing COBOL's capabilities within the IBM z/OS operating system.

zOS JCL (Job Control Language)

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Beginning COBOL for Programmers

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Provides a comprehensive overview of COBOL programming, including data and file management. It good choice for students who are new to COBOL or who want to learn more about the language's advanced features.

Beginning COBOL for Programmers

Beginning COBOL for Programmers

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Getting Started: Journey to Modernization with IBM Z

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From IBM showcases the latest advancements and innovations in COBOL, discussing its role in modern computing and highlighting the emerging trends and technologies that are shaping the future of COBOL development.

Getting Started: Journey to Modernization with IBM Z

Getting Started: Journey to Modernization with IBM Z

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Murach's Mainframe COBOL

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Is designed specifically for beginners, providing a gentle introduction to COBOL programming, covering fundamental concepts and basic programming techniques, making it easy for learners to grasp the basics of COBOL.

Murach's Mainframe COBOL

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ISV IBM zPDT Guide and Reference

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Comprehensive reference for COBOL programmers. It covers all aspects of the COBOL language, including data and file management. It good choice for students who want to have a complete reference book on COBOL.

ISV IBM zPDT Guide and Reference

ISV IBM zPDT Guide and Reference

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Database Systems: The Complete Book

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Provides an introduction to database systems. It covers all aspects of database systems, including data modeling, database design, and database implementation. It good choice for students who want to learn more about database systems.

Database Systems: The Complete Book

Database Systems The Complete Book

Database Systems: The Complete Book

Goal Student Access Code Card for Database Systems:...

Printed Access Code

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Cover image

COMPUTER PRIMER

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Provides a comprehensive overview of COBOL programming. It covers all aspects of the COBOL language, including data and file management. It good choice for students who want to learn more about COBOL programming.

COMPUTER PRIMER

COMPUTER PRIMER

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Rating

3.7

Effort

16 hours to complete

Level

Introductory

Via

Coursera

Institutions

LearnQuest

IBM

Instructor

Erik Herman

Language

English

Transcripts

Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша

This course belongs to a collection called IBM Mainframe Developer. It's comprised of six courses:

IBM COBOL Data and File Management (viewing)
IBM COBOL Core
IBM COBOL Basics
IBM COBOL Software Development Process
IBM COBOL Basic Testing and Debugging
IBM COBOL Software Development Practices

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Teaches fundamental elements of COBOL code

Develops the process of working with COBOL data

Develops handling of COBOL files

Examines relational databases in a COBOL context

Introduces VSCode, Zowe, and mainframe extensions

Describes Db2 topics and concepts

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