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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2019 - 2020

Module Title Introduction to Databases
Module Code CA218
School School of Computing

Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorDr Martin CraneOffice NumberL2.51
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

To provide students with an introduction to and an overview of database systems including database design, Entity Relationship data modelling, the relational model of data and SQL, as well as an overview of some database products.

Learning Outcomes

1. Recognise the various roles of users of databases in the context of the three level architecture model,
2. Understand the advantages and disadvantages of various file access structures,
3. Translate informal problem specifications into a well-formed ER Schema, and to map these to appropriate relational schema,
4. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of common data models and schemas for abstracting the details of data from users of the database,
5. Demonstrate a proficiency in writing Structured Query Language code to query and alter simple databases.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24No Description
Laboratory12No Description
Tutorial12No Description
Directed learning2End of Year
Directed learning1Lab Exam
Independent Study26No Description
Online activity24No Description
Independent Study24No Description
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Chapter 1. Information Systems

Chapter 2. Database Overview

Chapter 3. Storage Structures

Chapter 4. Entity-Relationship Data Modelling

Chapter 5. Relational Model of Data

Chapter 6. SQL

Chapter 7. Overview of Database Products

Chapter 8. The System Catalog

Chapter 9. Views

Chapter 10. Database Design & Normalisation

Chapter 11. Web Databases and JDBC

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment25% Examination Weight75%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Elmasri and Navathe: 2000, Fundamentals of Database Systems, Third Edition, Pearson Education, 9780201542639
  • R. Plew and R. Stephens: 2003, SAMS Teach Yourself: Beginning Databases, First Edition, SAMS Publishing, 9780672324925
Other Resources

None
Programme or List of Programmes
CASEBSc in Computer Applications (Sft.Eng.)
Archives: