Based on SQL Server to store the data, ASP Pages to build the web pages and using COM objects and T-SQL stored procedures to manipulate and present the data. Complex stored procedures were developed to format the data into a standard timesheet format that the students were familiar with. Student enrolment data and activity information is imported as required from other Uni systems by SQL Server using scheduled jobs and DTS packages. Result Nova replaced an existing time and labour intensive paper based process. Using Nova students are able to view and print their selected timetable.
Staff can modify timetables at any stage, even after students have made their selection.
A solution was developed that provided a Visual Basic front end to a SQL Server database for administering the placement groups and placement sites. This application allows staff to easily create placement groups, track students at each site, allocate students to a site and archive the data from completed placement groups. A stand alone application was required due to the complexity of the process being developed, involving scheduling the groups, creating placement groups based on enrollment data, requesting and confirming vacancies at sites, allocation of students and informing the sites of students that have been allocated to them. A separate web interface was developed using ASP pages connecting to the SQL Server database to allow students to log on, enter their site preferences for their current placement groups and print transcripts from previous field placements. Result Sonia has provided improved tracking and control of student field placements.