Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title DATABASE AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Code COMP518
Coordinator Dr A Sgouritsa
Computer Science
A.Sgouritsa2@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2019-20 Level 7 FHEQ First Semester 15

Aims

To provide a deep, systematic and critical understanding of the nature of information systems, with a focus on database systems and their operation.

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Design and implement relational databases with multiple tables.

(LO2) Understand the mathematical foundations of relational databases through the use of relational algebra.

(LO3) Use SQL effectively and efficiently as a data definition and data manipulation language in a modern DBMS.

(LO4) Demonstrate a systematic understanding of transaction management and concurrency control in database systems.

(S1) Skills in using technology - Using common applications (work processing, databases, spreadsheets etc.)

(S2) Critical thinking and problem solving - Creative thinking

(S3) Critical thinking and problem solving - Critical analysis

(S4) Critical thinking and problem solving - Synthesis

(S5) Skills in using technology - Information accessing

(S6) Numeracy/computational skills - Confidence/competence in measuring and using numbers

(S7) Problem solving

(S8) Business and customer awareness

(S9) Information Technology (IT) skills

(S10) Computer science principles

Syllabus
 

Fundamental concepts in information systems
The relational database model and its advantages over file-based storage
Relational algebra operations and compound expressions
Conceptual database design (entity-relationship modelling)
Logical database design
Functional dependencies and normalisation
SQL syntax and its role in a modern DBMS
Using SQL for data definition and efficient queries
Transaction management, atomicity and serialisability
Concurrency control mechanisms

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Lectures (22 hours)
Tutorials (20 hours)
Coursework (87 hours)
Private Study (21 hours)

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 22

   20

       42
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 108
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
MCQ 20 Questions  1 hour    25       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
SQL and Transactions  27 hours    25       
Logical Database Modelling and Normalisation  27 hours    25       
Relational Algebra and Entity-Relationship Modelling  27 hours    25       

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.