Beginning Access 2003 VBA

Chapter 3. Programming Applications Using Objects

This chapter explains the basic concepts of the object-oriented programming environment, such as using objects in your programs. You will learn the definition of properties, methods, and events, and when to use each one. Because the code is encapsulated into objects with properties, methods, and events available for the objects—a concept called object-oriented programming—you can build re-usable objects that save a lot of development time. Coding is simplified because the system is organized into smaller sets of interrelated objects, instead of one huge object. Your code will be easier to maintain because it is easier to understand.

Object-oriented programming is a scary concept for most people, but this chapter demonstrates that it's really not that complicated. After covering basic object-oriented programming concepts, you will also learn about several Microsoft Access objects and how to use them. Chapter 4 covers cover object-oriented programming in greater detail.

You may want to create a new database for use with examples in this chapter. From within Access, Select File

Elements of an Object

Objects are all the things that make up your Access database, such as forms, reports, modules, macros, and tables. Each object has properties that determine its behavior or appearance, as well as methods that determine which actions can be taken ...