CFR3113

Fact-based information modelling and relational database design

(IT)

P Steele

6 points + 4 hours per week + Peninsula + Prerequisites: CFR1123 or CFR1252 or CFR1306 or equivalent

Synopsis: Information systems and the conceptual schema. Conceptual, external and internal levels. The fact-based approach to information modelling. Specifying fact types and adding constraints. Derivation rules. The relational model of data. Domains, attributes, relations, candidate, primary and foreign keys. Entity, referential and user-defined integrity. Mapping fact-based conceptual schemas to relational schemas with particular emphasis on constraint implementation. Equivalence transformations on conceptual schemas and optimisation strategies. Comparison of fact-based models to entity relationship models.

Assessment: Examination (3 hours): 50% + Practical work: 50%