Introduction to databases
- Class 30
- Practice 30
- Independent work 90
Course title
Introduction to databases
Lecture type
Obligatory
Course code
23-11-508
Semester
2
ECTS
5
Lecturers and associates
Course overview
The aim of the module is to introduce students to the concepts of relational databases and relational database management systems (RDBMS).
This is the central module within the study program and represents the basis for other modules related to databases that students enroll in in the coming semesters. Acquired skills significantly contribute to the professional development of students in professional areas related to the study program.
The module is taught in the Transact-SQL dialect of the SQL programming language. The final evaluation is based on solving a series of smaller practical tasks. Database design tasks are solved using the default entity and connection modeling tool, while database query execution tasks are solved using the default client database management tools to connect to the existing database.
Content
Students will learn:
• concepts of relational databases necessary for the acquisition of more complex skills in order to be more competitive on the labor market
• basics of relational database design (user requirements, ER model, relational model)
• building elements of the relational model (tables, columns, data types, constraints, etc.)
• normal forms (1NF, 2NF, 3NF) and the normalization process
• write and interpret the impact of DDL statements
• write and interpret the impact of DML statements for data retrieval and their insertion, deletion and updating
• write more complex SQL queries that include the mechanics of joining tables, grouping, aggregation functions, and subqueries.
Literature
1. Harrington, J. L. (2016) Relational Database Design and Implementation. 4th edn. Amsterdam: Elsevier Inc.
Additional reading
1. Churcher, C. (2012) Beginning Database Design: From Novice to Professional. New York City: Apress.
Professional title obtained: Bachelor in Game Development
Minimal learning outcomes
- Create a relational data model based on user requirements.
- Create a database using DDL commands based on the relational model.
- Propose changes to the relational model in order to achieve a higher-order normal form.
- Use basic statements to manage data in relational databases.
- Create a solution using system and aggregate functions and grouping.
- Apply subqueries to create a more complex query.
Preferred learning outcomes
- Create a relational data model based on user requirements, including subsets and involute relationships.
- Create a database with constraints using DDL statements based on the relational model.
- Propose changes to the complex relational model in order to achieve a higher-order normal form.
- Use statements and joins to manage data in relational databases.
- Create a more complex solution using system and aggregate functions and grouping.
- Apply subqueries to create a more complex query, include queries as part of the FROM clause.