GCO3851

Database management systems

L Smith

6 points
* 4 hours per week
* First semester
* Gippsland/distance
* Prerequisites: GCO1812, GCO1813
* This subject is not available to computing students

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, a schema file from which an efficient database can be generated; and 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. Distance education students must have access to a microcomputer.

Assessment Assignments: 30%
* Examination: 70%
* A satisfactory level of achievement is required in both components to obtain a pass

Prescribed texts

EQL Software MicroSQL user guide vol. 1, Microresearch, 1995
Rob P and Coronel C Database systems: Design, implementation and management Wadsworth, 1993