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Importing Course Materials into Databricks

This guide describes two methods for importing course notebooks into your Databricks workspace:

  • Git Folder Cloning: For full-featured cloud-based Databricks environments (trial or enterprise)
  • DBC Archive Import: For Databricks Community Edition users

Each method enables access to course materials for hands-on execution and learning.

Method 1: Git Folder Import (Full Databricks Environments)

Databricks supports native integration with Git version control systems (e.g., GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket) using Git folders. This is the recommended method for users on AWS, Azure, or GCP-based workspaces.

Step-by-Step: Clone a GitHub Repository

1. Copy Repository URL

2. Open Workspace Tab

  • In the left sidebar, click Workspace

3. Create Git Folder

  • Click the Create button in the top-right
  • Select Git Folder

4. Paste Repository URL

  • Paste the copied URL into the Git repository URL field
  • Databricks auto-detects provider and assigns a default folder name

5. Confirm Cloning

  • Click Create Git Folder

The Git folder is now visible in the workspace. All repository notebooks are accessible for use or editing.

Git Folder Benefits

  • Integrated Git version control
  • Push/pull changes directly from Databricks UI
  • Continuous sync with remote branches
  • Ideal for CI/CD workflows and collaboration

Verifying Imported Notebooks

To confirm import success:

  1. Open the Workspace tab
  2. Expand your Home directory

  3. You should see:

  4. The previously created Demo folder (if applicable)

  5. A new Git folder with the imported course repository

Course notebooks are now available and ready for execution.

Method 2: Import DBC Archive (Community Edition Compatible)

The Databricks Community Edition does not support Git folder integration. Instead, use the DBC file import method. A .dbc file is a bundled export of one or more Databricks notebooks.

Step-by-Step: Import DBC File

1. Download Archive File

  • Navigate to the Resources section of the course
  • Download the .dbc file provided with the learning material

2. Open Workspace Tab

  • In the Community Edition UI, go to Workspace

3. Use Import Option

  • Click the three-dot menu (⋮) next to the Home or target folder
  • Select Import

4. Upload Archive

  • In the import dialog:
  • Click Browse
  • Select the .dbc file from your device

5. Complete Import

  • Click Import
  • The course notebooks will appear in the selected folder

Note: DBC files preserve the original folder structure and notebook content.

Summary of Import Methods

Feature Full Databricks Community Edition
Git Folder Integration ✅ Supported ❌ Not available
DBC File Import ✅ Supported ✅ Supported
Version Control Features ✅ Full Git ❌ None
Best Simplicity Option ✅ Either ✅ DBC Import

Next Steps

After importing the materials:

  • Open and run notebooks directly in the workspace
  • Modify and experiment with code for hands-on learning
  • Proceed with guided exercises in the course content