Introductory description

This module will enable students to gain a firm grasp of the basics of databases, including the principles of relational databases, how to write database queries, and what the principles of database design are, allowing them to design and implement a database from requirements. They will also learn what the basic features of database management and security are, and how to apply this to their own area of work.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

This module will teach students:

• An overview of databases and database management systems
• Concepts and language for relational theory (including values, variables, types, operators, propositions, and predicates)
• Relations and predicates and relational and logical operators
• Relational algebra
• Integrity constraints
• Query planning and optimisation
• Database design issues ( including functional dependency and normalisation)
• SQL for table definition, selection and queries, as well as constraints, join, and aggregation
• An overview of database management and security issues

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of and apply key knowledge in the theory and practice of database design and theory.
• Create appropriate efficient database designs for a range of simple applications.
• Use notations such as SQL to implement a database design.
• Construct appropriate queries in standard notations for a range of queries needed in common applications.
• Identify and express relevant integrity constraints for a given database design.
• Demonstrate an understanding of key issues of database management and security.
• Be able to apply their knowledge to the design and development of an effective database.

Indicative reading list

Elmasri, R., and Navathe, SB, "Database Systems: Models, Languages, Design and Application Programming (6/e)", Pearson (2011)
Connolly, T., and Begg, C., "Database Systems: A Practical Approach to Design, implementation and Management (5/e)", Pearson (2010)

Subject specific skills

• Identify organisational information requirements and model data solutions using
  conceptual data modelling techniques
• Implement a database solution using an industry standard database management system (DBMS)
• Perform database administration tasks and is cognisant of the key concepts of data quality and data security
• Apply industry standard processes, methods, techniques and tools to execute projects
• The role of data management systems in managing organisational data and information
• The fundamentals of data structures, database system design, implementation and maintenance

Transferable skills

• Have demonstrated that they have mastered basic business disciplines, ethics and courtesies, demonstrating timeliness and focus when faced with distractions and the ability to complete tasks to a deadline with high quality.
• Flexible attitude
• Ability to perform under pressure
• A thorough approach to work