Databases and Interfaces
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| COMP1048 | School of Computer Science | 1 | 10 | Autumn China |
- Code
- COMP1048
- School
- School of Computer Science
- Level
- 1
- Credits
- 10
- Semesters
- Autumn China
Summary
Databases are everywhere and we interact with many different databases every day when using the web, shopping online, looking up directions, and many more things. These databases need to be both easy to use and efficient. This module considers both the structure of databases, including how to make them reliable, and efficient, and the appropriate user interfaces which will make them easy to interact with for users. You will start by looking at how to design a database, gaining an understanding of the standard features that management systems provide and how you can best utilise them and then develop an interactive application to access your database. Throughout the lectures and computing sessions you will learn how to design and implement systems using a standard database management system, web technologies and GUI interfaces through practical programming/system examples. You will spend around two hours per week in lectures and two hours per week in organised computer labs studying for this module, and will be expected to spend additional time practising and completing your coursework.
Target Students
Qualifying year undergraduate students in the School of Computer Science.
Classes
- One 2-hour lecture each week for 10 weeks
- One 2-hour computing each week for 10 weeks
Activities may take place every teaching week of the Semester or only in specified weeks. It is usually specified above if an activity only takes place in some weeks of a Semester Further Activity Details: One lectures (1 x 2hr) and 1 x 2hr practical per week.
Assessment
- 25% Coursework 1: Develop a database-driven web application. Programming Assignment.
- 15% In-lab Quiz: Quiz on SQL and database content.
- 10% Weekly In-Lab Tests: Small problem-solving activities. Typically, 1-2 weeks to complete each activity.
- 50% Exam 1 (2-hour): 2 hours written exam
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
To provide students with a general introduction to the theory and practice of database systems. To enable students to gain experience with a modern database system through the use of the SQL language. To give an understanding of the structure and workings of database systems and provide some insight into recent developments. To give an understanding of the principles of event-driven programming. To enable students to gain experience with design and implementation of GUI interfaces within a database environment.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding: Ability to understand and use SQL. An understanding of the ANSI/SPARC and relational models of database systems. Understanding of the principles of event-driven programming. Intellectual Skills: Basic knowledge of the mathematics underlying relational database systems. Ability to design and implement database systems. Ability to design and implement a simple Web GUI. Professional Skills: The use of SQL for database specification and manipulation. The use of web technologies and GUI interfaces for database front-end development. Transferable Skills: Understanding of the use and administration of database systems. Understanding the use of web technologies and GUI interfaces.
Conveners
- Dr Matthew Pike
- Dr Yuan Yao