Database Systems
ISYS2014

Year 2, Sem 2 Core Enabling Knowledge and Skills Technical Competence Practical and ‘Hands-on’ Experience

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Code ISYS2014
Credits 25
Graduate Attributes

Introduction

This unit will introduce students to the fundamental concepts and methods for managing large amounts of data using relational database systems. The unit covers both theoretical concepts, such as database design, schema mapping and normalization, and practical database skills, such as creating, updating, and querying a database. Advanced concepts such as procedures, triggers and transactions will also be introduced. The unit will provide the foundation to design and implement a database system as an integral part of computer systems of different domains, and prepare students to extend their skills to explore more advanced database concepts, including nonrelational database systems, and emerging database technologies.

Note: The units COMP1001, COMP1005 and COMP1007 are concurrent pre-requisites for this unit, not normal prerequisites. Unfortunately, this is shown incorrectly in both the handbook and the system we use to create these unit outlines. If you have not completed one of these units, you can still enrol in this unit as long as you are enrolled in one of the concurrent pre-requisites at the same time.
Lecture 1 x 2 Hours Weekly 
Practical 1 x 2 Hours Weekly 

Unit Learning Outcomes

  • 1 create, query, update and operate Relational Databases in a DBMS environment, GC1, GC2, GC3, GC6
  • 2 design and Evaluate relational database schema using the ER model and normalisation for a real world project, GC1, GC2, GC3, GC4, GC6
  • 3 integrate a Relational Database with Java or Python, GC1, GC2, GC3, GC6
  • 4 describe the principles of correctness for concurrent transactions and explain the techniques for managing concurrent transactions in a DBMS, GC1, GC2, GC3, GC6

Course Learning Outcomes

  • 1 Apply the theory of computer systems networking within the engineering design method, whilst remaining cognisant of network operational issues
  • 2 Define a problem and apply creative thinking to the formulation of a solution; verify and implement the solution
  • 5 Use appropriate tools to design, analyse and verify computer systems networks and their components

Assessment Breakdown

Recent Unit Changes & Response to Student Feedback

Students are encouraged to provide feedback through student surveys (such as Insight and the annual Student Experience Survey) and interactions with teaching staff.

Listed below are some recent changes to the unit as a result of student feedback.

In 2016:
  • Moving from a single-server model to each student having their own virtual server. This allows us to cover issues including database installation, maintenance and tuning.
  • Adding more scaffolding (teaching support) for the design part of the unit, which has been causing trouble for many students.
In 2017:
  • Removed relational algebra
  • Added in left and right joins, and putting more emphasis on correct joining.
  • Added in Python interface. Students can choose either Java or Python, based on background and personal preference. This allows the unit to be taken by Data Science students.
In 2018:
  • Reducing time spent on the interface and introducing (non-examinable) section on non-relational databases.
In 2019:
  • Changing to two supervisors in the practicals. Some practicals will be re-written to take better advantage
In 2021:
  • All practical worksheets were revised to make the tasks more structured.
  • More time was allocated to ER mapping worksheets as per students' feedback.
  • All lecture materials were revised and restructured, adding more examples.
  • Assessments were changed to practical tests, a mid-term test, and a take-home assignment.
In 2022:
  • Some practical worksheets were updated to match the lecture content closely.
  • More examples were added to the lectures.
  • Revised the non-relational database systems content.
In 2023:
  • The assignment rubric is revised to provide a better understanding of the expectations.
  • The lecture content of E-R to Implementation is revised.
  • The triggers, views and Indexes were covered in a single lecture to support a better flow of the content.
  • More lab time is allocated for Procedures, Triggers and Views.
In 2024:
  • The database connectivity lecture has been revised.