[ASQ10_Form_2]
School of Computing
Module Specification Form
Code
Title
School
Credit rating
Aims
Intended
learning
outcomes
Indicative
content
Assessment
Teaching &
learning
When taught
Modes of
delivery &
student
participation
Pre-requisites
of entry
requirements
AC32006
Database Systems
Computing
Level
Volume
3
20 Credits
This module aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the various
database architectures, and teach the theory and practice of database
design. The emphasis on the principles of good design is underpinned by
study of the theories which govern good design. In particular, we will study
the relational model of databases, both from the theoretical standpoint of
understanding why it has become so important, and from the more
practical standpoint of how to design and build a database using this
model. Practical illustration of theory is given throughout the course.
KNOWLEDGE
 Describe the role and capabilities of relational databases.
 Summarise the functionality and application domains of alternative
database architectures.
 Advise non-specialists about legal and professional issues relating to
databases.
SKILL
 Specify, design, implement and evaluate a database solution that
obeys the rules of relational database design.
 Demonstrate appropriate use alternative database systems.
UNDERSTANDING
 Explain the principles of good database design.
 Suggest when alternative database architectures should be employed
in preference to the relational database model.
Introduction to relational databases and database components.
From single-tables to multiple-tables. Relationships, primary and foreign
keys and joins.
Data modelling and database design: entity-relationship modelling &
normalisation; conceptual, logical and physical design; forms and reports
Database Queries and the Structured Query Language (SQL).
Transaction Management and Object Databases
Data Warehousing and Data Mining
Hypertext and Databases for the WWW
Multimedia Databases
Data Protection Act
Coursework (%)
Exam (%)
40
60
No. & duration of
1 examination of 2 hours duration
exam(s)
This module consists of up to 30 hours of lectures and tutorials and 20
hours of laboratory practical sessions. The module is relevant to the
themes “designing the future” and “promoting cultural understanding”.
S2
Conventional lectures and tutorial sessions with active student
participation. There are also laboratory practice sessions where
techniques outlined in the teaching sessions are put into practice in realworld problems.
AC22003 and AC22004 or equivalent plus 40 further credits from Level 2
modules in the School of Computing
Accessibility
for students
with disability
Corequisites
Antirequisites
*Students with disabilities are supported on this module through the
"http://www.dundee.ac.uk/disabilitysupport/" University's Disability Support
Services and will be given appropriate aid and guidance consistent with
their disability.
http://www.computing.dundee.ac.uk/staff/awaller/disability.asp. Support for
students with disabilities in the School of Computing is also available.
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