The emphasis of this higher education course is on the concepts and theory of database systems. The course is designed to provide an understanding of the importance of database systems, and the role of these systems in information technology. Students will develop an understanding of database structures and concepts, database design methodologies, database jargon, database rules, database procedures, and implementation and management of database systems. Students will learn to analyze, design, and implement business database applications. Since database concepts and theory endure regardless of specific vendor and product, it seems prudent that students direct their efforts on mastering the concepts and theory of database systems technology rather than any specific vendor product. Concept and theory savvy students will be well-prepared to employ any of the various database software packages available today and in the future; and, will easily hurdle navigation through proprietary GUI. In this course, students will use the ORACLE database software as a tool to enhance the learning of the database concepts and theory presented in the course.
Course Objectives
To gain an understanding of the difference between traditional file processing and the database environment
To develop an understanding of the database design process including various methodologies and models that are utilized in the design process. To gain some experience in database design.
To gain an understanding of the relational database model both as a design
tool and as a structure for a Database Management System (DBMS). To gain experience
in database design using the relational model.
To gain an understanding of data normalization.
To learn the functions of a data dictionary/data directory and database
catalog.
To become familiar with various implementations of Database Management Systems
including examples representing the Relational Model, the network and the
Hierarchical Model.
To gain experience in working with a relational database system including
use of SQL as a DML and DDL.
