Module Code - Title:

CS6401 - DATABASE SYSTEMS IN PRACTICE

Year Last Offered:

2025/6

Hours Per Week:

Lecture

2

Lab

1

Tutorial

1

Other

0

Private

6

Credits

6

Grading Type:

N

Prerequisite Modules:

Rationale and Purpose of the Module:

This module is created specifically for the new M.Sc. in Business Analytics. Database management systems and the use of Structured Query Language (SQL) are integral components in the data analytics process. This module aims at introducing the relational data model alongside the NoSQL data models. It covers in detail SQL with an emphasis on the development of practical skills for work with database management systems.

Syllabus:

1. Overview of the main data models used in practice: the relational model, the key-value model, the column-family model, the document-based model and the graph model. Comparison between the models and case studies of their practical application. 2. SQL statements for data definition and data manipulation. 3. SQL integrity constraints, triggers and stored procedures. 4. SQL indexes and query optimisation. 5. Use of SQL embedded in programming code. 6. Relational database design: entity-relationship diagrams, functional dependencies, Boyce-Codd normal form, Third Normal Form (3NF). 7. Transaction management: ACID vs BASE. 8. Practical use of current relational and NoSQL database management systems.

Learning Outcomes:

Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)

1. Contrast the relational data model to NoSQL data models. 2. Recognise the advantages and limitations of the relational data model. 3. Recognise the elements of a relational schema design that affects the performance of database applications. 4. Contrast ACID to BASE transactions. 5. Discuss the role of a data model for effective data analytics. 6. Define optimal database schemas with indexes and integrity constraints. 7. Construct SQL statements for answering complex database queries. 8. Create stored procedures and triggers to implement database transactions. 9. Demonstrate skills in embedding SQL in programming code.

Affective (Attitudes and Values)

1. Awareness of ethical issues associated with use and misuse of big data.

Psychomotor (Physical Skills)

N/A

How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:

The module is taught in the standart format of lectures, computer lab exercises and tutorials. The module aims at covering current database systems technologies used in practice.

Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):

Prime Texts:

Carolyn Begg, Thomas Connolly (2014) Database Systems: A Practical Approach to Design, Implementation, and Management , Pearson

J.D. Ullman and J. Widom, Prentice Hall (2014) A First Course in Database Systems (4th ed.) , Pearson

Other Relevant Texts:

Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:

Semester(s) Module is Offered:

Autumn

Module Leader:

Nikola.Nikolov@ul.ie