Module: CPU5001-20 - Databases

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Lee Scott

Module Tutor Contact Details: l.scott@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module provides an introduction to the design, creation and use of databases. It exposes particularly the function of relational databases, and the various data modelling approaches required to create solutions that are organised efficiently, robust and secure.

The aim of Databases is to provide practical experience of implementing applications that leverage standard relational database management systems (RDBMS). You learn how to determine appropriate relationships between data entities and how to represent them, use SQL notation to retrieve and manipulate data, and deploy database normalisation forms to ensure data integrity. During the module we utilise variants of the LAMP web service stack, deploying MySQL and PHP to negotiate transactions with databases and serve content to users via web browsers. Module content therefore also incorporates aspects of HTML markup and JavaScript scripting to develop simple, yet focused dynamic web applications.

2. Outline syllabus:

Outline syllabus

• The function and scope of databases within computing

• An overview of relational database management systems (RDBMS)

• Interpreting Requirements Specification documents

• Expressing data relationships via an entity-relationship (ER) diagram

• Data modelling – conceptual, logical and physical models

• Normalisation

• Implementing and querying databases

• Approaches to serving content to users

• Security and permission rights

3. Teaching and learning activities:

Class Hours

The module includes a lecture component that introduces underlying concepts and principles, and supporting lab sessions to allow for application of specific tools and techniques. A series of database modelling, implementation and querying tasks are undertaken to audition the skills required to complete summative assessments.

Independent Learning

It is recommended that you develop an appropriate workflow on a personal computer to enable you to enhance your understanding of database design and implementation outside of class hours.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Database model with annotations

• % Weighting: 30%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Web application with supporting documentation

• % Weighting: 70%