For the 2007/08 student returns the format of the data changed from comma-separated to XML. This was publicised for a long time before the data collection but, with the normal day-to-day business to attend to, many people found themselves with new demands on their data processing and time running out.
If you find yourself in that position contact me to discuss the options open to you.
With more than half a dozen major entities making up the student return and just as many subsidiary entities it can be a challenge to produce a valid XML document.
Problems I've heard frequently include:
- It takes a long time to generate the file
- It is difficult to identify which records are at fault
- How do I make an XML file ... and what is XML anyway?
It takes a long time to generate the file
There are systems out there that take an entire overnight run to generate a single file. Of course it hasn't been validated yet so one error may be enough to force a rerun and so another day disappears.
With the right techniques a file can be produced from most databases in a much shorter time; the techniques employed will vary between student record systems but do not need huge computers and lots of time to run.
It is difficult to identify which records are at fault
It can sometimes be difficult to identify the source of the problems, especially where the error occurs between a student instance and a course element.
The validation kit will provide references to the entities involved but there could be other information that would help the process such as how many instances fails for a course with the same error.
How do I make an XML file ... and what is XML anyway?
If your system doesn't offer a menu option to produce a file, then it's probably time to get a developer involved who can understand databases, XML and the importance of doing this and going it right.
If you are experiencing difficulties creating your return contact me to discuss the options available to you.