My boss would like me to learn SQL, take exams and get microsoft certified in DBA or DB Development (I think i'd prefer Dev, thats more the building of DB's right?). I've dipped my toes into SQL, but i'm a bit locked out of moving forward with my teaching myself, as i think some people are in fear for their jobs. but anyways, can you guys recommend some classes or books that might be helpful? I'm really more of a hands on learner (as in, less of a text book and more of a "here's an example database, do these 15 things to it, here's how"). I'm not trying to go to school for however long as i can't leave my job, and the expense of that is probably more than he's willing to bear. Also, he taught himself with books long ago, so i'm thinking he's expecting similar behavior from me.
Kentucky recently had a program where you got a free voucher for online Microsoft courses. I'm using it to learn windows server 2k8. It isn't really a robust course but I'm saving around 300 dollars.
You could see if you're company is willing to pay for the online courses or see if your state government is offering a similar program, which usually come with a 'virtual envirotment' to do certain exercises with.
Experience Microsoft SQL Server 2008 hands on, and see how it can provide a scalable, high-performance database engine for mission-critical applications that require the highest levels of availability and security. Virtual labs are simple, with no complex setup or installation required. You get a downloadable manual and a 90-minute block of time for each module.
Application Development
* Data Programmability
* Data Platform
* Spatial Data
Data Warehousing
* Data Warehousing
* SQL Server 2008 Overview
Business Intelligence
* Analysis Services
* Data Mining
*
SQL Server Integration Services
* SQL Server Reporting Services
OLTP
* High Availability – Always On
* Manageability
* Performance and Scale
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You could see if you're company is willing to pay for the online courses or see if your state government is offering a similar program, which usually come with a 'virtual envirotment' to do certain exercises with.
http://www.microsoft.com/sqlserver/2008/en/us/try-it.aspx
Try this subsection for your hands-on.
Application Development
* Data Programmability
* Data Platform
* Spatial Data
Data Warehousing
* Data Warehousing
* SQL Server 2008 Overview
Business Intelligence
* Analysis Services
* Data Mining
*
SQL Server Integration Services
* SQL Server Reporting Services
OLTP
* High Availability – Always On
* Manageability
* Performance and Scale
http://www.microsoft.com/sqlserver/2008/en/us/virtual-labs.aspx