Intro-To-COBOL-GnuCobol.md

Introduction to COBOL Programming with GnuCOBOL

Course Overview

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to COBOL programming using GnuCOBOL, an open-source COBOL compiler. Designed for beginners and intermediate programmers, the course covers fundamental programming concepts, data structures, practical applications, and advanced topics such as database integration. Each module builds on the previous one, ensuring a structured learning path that equips students with the skills to write robust COBOL programs for business applications.

Course Objectives

• Understand COBOL syntax and structure using GnuCOBOL.
• Master core programming concepts like variables, conditionals, and iteration.
• Implement data structures and basic algorithms in COBOL.
• Develop practical COBOL programs for real-world business scenarios.
• Explore advanced use cases, programming challenges, and database connectivity.

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of programming concepts (helpful but not required).
• Familiarity with command-line interfaces.
• GnuCOBOL installed on your system (installation guide provided in Module 1).

Course Modules

1. Introduction to COBOL and GnuCOBOL Setup

   • Overview of COBOL, its history, and modern relevance.
   • Installing and configuring GnuCOBOL.
   • Writing and running your first COBOL program.
   • File: module_01_intro_and_setup.md

2. Core COBOL Concepts

   • COBOL program structure (DIVISIONS).
   • Variables, data types, and PIC clauses.
   • Conditionals (IF, EVALUATE).
   • Iteration (PERFORM loops).
   • File: module_02_core_concepts.md

3. Data Structures in COBOL

   • Working with tables (arrays) and indexed data.
   • Records and hierarchical data structures.
   • File handling (sequential and indexed files).
   • File: module_03_data_structures.md

4. Algorithms in COBOL

   • Sorting and searching algorithms.
   • Data validation and error handling.
   • Modular programming with PERFORM and subprograms.
   • File: module_04_algorithms.md

5. Practical COBOL Programs

   • Building a payroll processing program.
   • Creating a simple inventory management system.
   • Generating reports from data files.
   • File: module_05_practical_programs.md

6. Advanced Use Cases and Programming Challenges

   • Batch processing for large datasets.
   • Transaction processing systems.
   • Programming challenges (e.g., data transformation, report formatting).
   • File: module_06_advanced_use_cases.md

7. COBOL and Databases

   • Introduction to database concepts in COBOL.
   • Connecting to SQL databases using GnuCOBOL (e.g., SQLite).
   • Performing CRUD operations (Create, Read, Update, Delete).
   • File: module_07_databases.md

Course Format

• Each module includes theoretical explanations, code examples, and hands-on exercises.
• Students will write, compile, and run COBOL programs using GnuCOBOL.
• Assessments include coding assignments and a final project integrating concepts from all modules.

Getting Started

Begin with Module 1 to set up your environment and write your first COBOL program. Follow the modules sequentially for the best learning experience.