5014.15 - Databases and SQL


Course number
5014.15
Title
Databases and SQL
ECTS
7.5
Prerequisites
Introductions into Computer Science, Java and C++
Purpose
To give the student a first introduction to databases, database management systems, SQL and database design.
Content
The course starts with an introduction to database management systems. It continues with a discussion of entity relationship modeling. Then the relational model as well as mapping rule for turning an entity relationship diagram into a relational schema is discussed. Finally 3NF and BCNF as well as respective design algorithm are discussed. Parameters of storage media and transaction processing are the final course issues.
Learning and teaching approaches
The course starts march 23 of 2015. The course days are Monday and Thursday. The teaching covers 8 weeks with one week Easter break. The classes last from 9 am to 3 pm. The details will be agreed on at the first meeting. The classes will take place in the Ovastova. Attending the classes is very strongly encouraged. The assignments will be issued at the beginning of the course. The mini-project will be discussed and implemented in class. Late hand ins will only be accepted in case of sickness as certified by a medical doctor.
Learning outcomes
The successful student will be able to: • Create an external database model with the entity relationship model. • Create a conceptual database model suited for an external database model. • Install the Postgres database management system and create a database. • Define and execute low to medium level complexity SQL queries. • Define and explain the relational database model including its most important data constraints. • Explain the potential causes and consequences of redundancy implied anomalies to maintaining data. • Define 3NF, BCNF and execute the synthesis algorithm for achieving 3NF. • Explain why transactions are used and what ACID-transaction are. Explain what conflict-serializability and deadlock means and why these concepts are important for transaction processing.
Assessment method
Oral exam bases on short report produced by students in groups during the course. The report counts 50% and the exam 50% in the students grade. Failing students may be reexamined by amendment to their report and a repeat exam.
Examination
External
Contact
Hans Blaasvær