Computer Science, Prifysgol Cymru Aberystwyth University of Wales


CS27310 (1995-96 session)
Relational Database Systems


Brief Description

This module introduces fundamental principles of database design and implementation. It covers practical topics concerned with entity-relationship modelling and effective use of the facilities provided by Oracle and theorectical topics concerned with data modelling, placing particular emphasis on the relational data model, relational algebra, relational calculus, and the realisation of the relational model in Oracle.

Aims, Objectives, Syllabus, Booklist


Further Details

Number of lectures
24
Number of seminars/tutorials
4
Number of practicals
0
Coordinator
Dr. Fred Long
Other staff involved
Not yet known
Pre-requisites
Pass or exemption in Computer Science at Part I or CS10310 by arrangement with the department
Co-requisites
None
Incompatibilities
None
Assessment
Assessed coursework - 40%
Written exam - 60%
Timing
This module is offered only in Semester 1

Aims

This module aims to familiarise students with the techniques used in designing and implementing database systems, and with the concepts embodied in relational database systems.

Objectives

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

Syllabus

Database Systems Concepts - 1 Lecture
Relational Modelling I - 6 Lectures
Entities and relationships. Connection traps. The design of relations. Transformation of E-R model into Relational Schema.
Implementing a database using Oracle - 3 Lectures
Relational Modelling II - 3 Lectures
Data normalisation. Validating a design.
Advanced SQL - 4 Lectures
Views and Indexes. Integrity constraints in Oracle. Built-in functions. Nested Queries and subqueries. Null values and the outer join. The role of the data dictionary. The data dictionary in ORACLE.
Interfaces and Tools - 1 Lecture
The Forms environment SQL in applications programs The Report Writer
Relational Database Design Methodology - 4 Lectures
An overview of design techniques. Overview of the database design process. First level design. Second level design.
Data Models and Oracle - 2 Lectures

Booklist

Students are likely to need ready access to the following

Rick F. van der Lans. The SQL Guide to Oracle. Addison-Wesley, 1991.

Computer unit documentation. To be advised.

J.G. Hughes. Database Technology, A Software Engineering Approach. Prentice-Hall, 1988.

C.J. Date. An Introduction to Database Systems. Addison-Wesley, 6th edition, 1995.

Version 4.1

Syllabus Syllabus

John Hunt Departmental Advisor

jjh@aber.ac.uk

Dept of Computer Science, UW Aberystwyth (disclaimer)