The module covers the theory and application of database management systems (DBMS) in a business context. The fundamentals of data modelling and relational database design are addressed, along with the pragmatics of implementation using contemporary relational DBMS software. There is a strong emphasis on the application of the theory in the domain of business information management and analysis. The module aims to give students an understanding of database systems principles, along with the requisite knowledge and skills to apply those principles to solve quasi-realistic data management/analysis problems in the business domain.
Theory of Database Systems
Definitions of database and DBMS
The functions of a DBMS
Historical development of model types: hierarchical, network, relational and object-oriented
Database software objectives: independence, integrity, minimal redundancy, data sharing, control
Overview of contemporary DBMS software
Data Analysis
Data modelling using entity-relationship diagrams
Entity, attribute, relationship, cardinality
Normalisation
Definition and purpose of normalization
Functional dependency and normalization to 3NF or Boyce-Codd normal form
Database Design
Using entity-relationship models to produce normalized tables
Primary keys & foreign keys
Implementation of one-to-one, one-to-many and many-to-many relationships in a relational DBMS
Laboratory Work (using a contemporary DBMS)
Creating tables
Creating relationships
Implementing integrity constraints and validation rules
Querying the database: select, action, parameter & total queries
Join properties: referential integrity, cascade update and delete
Generating reports & mail merge
Creating the user interface: forms and subforms
Creating user views
The module will be taught using lectures, laboratory work and problem sets/cases requiring the student to engage in self-directed learning.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 40 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 60 |