CSC-20002 - Module Specification
School of Computing and Mathematics
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2023/24

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

Successful completion of CSC-10029 Fundamentals of Computing or equivalent, and CSC-10024 Programming I or equivalent.

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2023/24

This module introduces students to databases and database management systems by providing theoretical knowledge and practical experience in data modelling, database design, implementation and administration.
The module develops the following Keele Graduate attributes:
2. An appreciation of the development and value of your chosen subjects of study, awareness of their contexts, the links between them, and awareness of the provisional and dynamic nature of knowledge.
3. Information literacy: the ability to locate, evaluate and synthesise large amounts of frequently conflicting information, ideas and data.
4. The ability creatively to solve problems using a range of different approaches and techniques, and to determine which techniques are appropriate for the issue at hand.
6. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written and verbal forms for different purposes and to a variety of audiences.
7. The knowledge, skills, self-confidence and self-awareness actively to pursue your future goals.

To introduce students to databases and database management systems by providing theoretical knowledge and practical experience in data modelling, database design, implementation and administration.

Intended Learning Outcomes

describe and advise upon the benefits and characteristics of database models and database management systems (DBMS) and the importance of data independence, and comment upon the level of data independence offered by a particular DBMS: 2
determine whether a given relational database is well designed (ie. meets BCNF criteria) and transform a schema into BCNF: 2
create and query a relational database using command level SQL: 1
describe and advise upon the important aspects of a database implementation, operation and maintenance (including storage structures, recovery, concurrency and security mechanisms): 1,2
use data modelling techniques for the design of databases: 1,2
design and build a small database system with a web interface: 1
show awareness and knowledge of other types of database interfaces: 2
identify the important characteristics of the relational model for the purposes of developing relational databases: 1,2

Study hours

20 hours lectures
20 hours practical work (labs)
5 hours tutorials/workshops
103 hours Independent study/coursework
2 hour Examination

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment