Introduction to this module

This module aims to enable candidates to:
a. create user interfaces based on good design principles
b. utilise controls, properties, events and methods
c. use Visual Basic facilities to assist with the efficient production of code
d. create programs that validate and respond to user input 
e. make use of constants and a range of variable types
f. develop an understanding of event-driven programs
g. use simple error handling techniques
h. create simple multi-form applications, including dialog boxes.

Candidate eligibility

The selection of candidates is at the discretion of centres.  Candidates require some previous knowledge of Visual Basic to undertake this module.  It would be advantageous for candidates to have completed 7261/205 Coding and Programming using Visual Basic Level I, prior to undertaking this module.
 

Resource requirements

In order to undertake this module a candidate will require access to a microcomputer or work station running Windows Version 3.11 or later and Microsoft Visual Basic version 3.0 or later (Standard or Professional Edition).

Syllabus
1. Graphical user Interface design
1.1 Guiding principles and standards
1.2 Windows GUI principles

2. Controls 
2.1 Controls and their properties
2.2 Events and Methods
2.3 Focus and Tab order
2.4 Control arrays

3. Visual Basic environment
 3.1 Find, Replace and Syntax checking

4. Coding
4.1 Assignment statements
4.2 Code intelligibility
4.3 Constants and Variables and Arrays
4.4 Operators
4.5 String manipulation
4.6 Control structures
4.7 Invoking control event procedures from code
4.8 Random numbers 
4.9 General and function procedures

5. Monitoring and Responding to User Input
5.1 Message and Input boxes
5.2 Keyboard input
5.3 Selected text
5.4 Access letters
5.5 Drag and Drop

6. Graphical methods
6.1 Screen object and co-ordinate system
6.2 Drawing Lines and Circles

7. Testing, Debugging and Error handling
7.1 Testing and setting watch expressions
7.2 Error handling code in procedures

8. Multiple-form applications
8.1 Active control 
8.2 Inter-form communication
8.3 Creating and using dialog boxes

9. File handling
9.1 Sequential files