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 INTRODUCTION TO DATABASES
Code COMP102
Coordinator Dr F Grasso
Computer Science
Floriana@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2019-20 Level 4 FHEQ Whole Session 15

Aims

To gain an understanding of database systems, encourage the appropriate and efficient design and usage of database systems at the conceptual and logical level; To provide an understanding and practical experience of of data manipulation and query in SQL; To provide a basic understanding of relational algebra and its mapping to SQL.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Students should be able to identify principles of conceptual design using ER and UML design methodologies;

(LO2) Students should be able to apply principles of conceptual design using ER and UML design methodologies;

(LO3) Students should be able to recognise logical design principles, in particular normalization and functional dependencies;

(LO4) Students should be able to state the issues related to physical design;

(LO5) Students should be able to use SQL as a data definition and manipulation language, and as a language for querying databases;

(LO6) Students should be able to operate and use a basic DBMS;

(LO7) Students should be able to identify the principles underpinning the relational model and its relationship to SQL;

(LO8) Students should be able to identify the legal implications of creating and maintaining a database system.

(S1) Effectively communicate in writing including presentation of technical material to a layperson audience.

(S2) Develop the ability to work effectively in group to develop a project from conception to deployment.

(S3) Develop the ability to manage time effectively and to organise own skills.


Syllabus

 

Introduction to Databases (2 lectures) Database Development lifecycle (11 lectures): 2.1 Conceptual Design: including ER and UML modelling; 2.2 Logical Design: including normalization (up to the fourth normal form); 2.3 Physical design: including secondary storage. SQL (11 lectures) 3.1 SQL as a data definition language; 3.2 SQL as a data manipulation language; 3.3 SQL as a query language; 3.4 Advanced SQL; Relational Algebra (2 lectures) Different DBMS Environments (2 lectures) Legal framework (2 lectures)


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description:
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: (lectures to take place over 2 semesters)

Teaching Method 2 - Laboratory Work
Description:
Attendance Recorded: Yes


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 30

    10

    40
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 110
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
             

Recommended Texts

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