IT 340: Introduction to Database Systems
(Note: This course was COMS 340: Database Management Systems I before the 2007-8 catalog.)
Contents
Introduction to database systems, models, management systems, file organization,
database design, data modeling, normalization, conversion of data model into
relational model, and SQL. Implementation of a relational database application
in a team environment.
This course (IT 340) is a prerequisite for the following IT course(s):
This course is normally scheduled every fall and spring semester.
(
under construction...)
The following content areas will be covered.
- Database Terminology and Concepts (about 12 hours)
- DBMS Structure (about 8 hours)
- Conceptual Modeling Techniques (about 8 hours)
- Logical Database Modeling (about 4 hours)
- Physical Database Modeling (about 2 hours)
- Relational Normal Forms (about 8 hours)
- Database and IS Implementation (about 8 hours)
- DB Application Development (about 4 hours)
- Systems, Work-Flow, Organizational Systems (about 4 hours)
- Legacy Database Systems (Hierarchic and Network) (about 2 hours)
Additional topics may also be covered based on time and student interest.
By the end of this course, you should be able to
- construct several simple queries to look at data in a relational database system
- from a workflow drawing or other requirements documents, construct a simple multi-table database
- identify and define parts of a DBMS (e.g., query optimizer, concurrency control subsystem)
- explain the purpose of each of the major constructs of a conceptual data model, such as the E/R model
- explain the logical purpose of a primary key
- explain how a multilevel index works
- explain the difference between fragmentation and allocation and how they are related
- change a 2NF table into at least 3NF through decomposition
- change a 3NF table into at least BCNF through decomposition
- given a table in an unknown normal form along with a list of dependencies, determine the highest normal form of that table
- list database systems development and retrieval facilities needed to facilitate creation of information system applications
- give an example of an OLAP application
- give an example of an OLTP application
- define physical systems and work flow for an information system
- explain logical interconversion between different DBMS models
- explain the data definitions required for hierarchical, network, and relational database models
- explain the reasons for specific commands within the data manipulation facilities
Final textbook choice is determined by the instructor.
