Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives Students completing this subject should be able to demonstrate an understanding of network, relational and object- oriented database systems which will allow them to contrast the various systems' relative strengths and weaknesses; develop a conceptual database model for a particular environment using the tools of entity relationship modelling and normalisation and produce, from a given conceptual database design, a schema file from which an efficient database can be generated; use SQL (MicroSQL) both interactively and to develop a user-oriented database system.
Synopsis Overview of database management systems; introduction to the relational model; normalisation and relational design; ER modelling, object data modelling, database design language; the hierarchical model; the network model; the fourth generation environment; database administration, database security and recovery, distributed databases and current trends in the field; interactive SQL and embedded SQL in a third generation language (dBase IV). For distance education students there is an optional four hours contact at each weekend school, coupled with study guides and provision for additional student contact through phone, fax and electronic mail.
Assessment Assignments: 30% + Examination 70% + Note that a satisfactory level of achievement is required in both components to obtain a pass.