CIS 2002 Database Design

STAFFING:

REQUISITES:

RATIONALE:

An essential component of a successful information system is usually a well designed and efficient database. It is important for those who wish to become information systems practitioners to have a sound understanding of database theory and current database trends. Furthermore, it is of crucial importance that information systems practitioners understand database design because databases are not only pervasive but are also becoming inexorably larger and more complex.

SYNOPSIS:

This course introduces students to relational database theory and design. Practical methodologies for data analysis, data modelling and database design are examined, coupled with a detailed study of the relational database model. Students will build practical skills in ER diagramming, normalisation and database design. Students will also be exposed to a range of topics in database theory and current database trends.

OBJECTIVES:

On successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1. describe and discuss the relational database model;
2. describe, use and apply data analysis and modelling techniques, including ER diagramming and normalisation, and derive a relational database design;
3. demonstrate an ability to analyse and justify database designs, with clear verbal and written statements of any assumptions about the data; and
4. demonstrate an understanding of current database theory and trends.

TOPICS:

TEXT and MATERIALS required to be PURCHASED or accessed:

ALL textbooks and materials are available for purchase from USQ BOOKSHOP (unless otherwise stated). Orders may be placed via secure internet, free fax 1800642453, phone 07 46312742 (within Australia), or mail. Overseas students should fax +61 7 46311743, or phone +61 7 46312742. For costs, further details, and internet ordering, use the 'Textbook Search' facility at http://bookshop.usq.edu.au click 'Semester', then enter your 'Course Code' (no spaces).

CIS2002 study package available from the USQ Bookshop.

REFERENCE MATERIALS:

STUDENT WORKLOAD REQUIREMENTS:

ASSESSMENT DETAILS:

NOTES:

1.

STUDENTS: Practical test will be held during the last week of the teaching period.

2.

STUDENTS: Tutorial Exercises will be held from weeks 2 - 6.

3.

The examination is scheduled to be held in the end-of-semester examination period. Students will be advised of the official examination date for Exam (Parts A and B) after the timetable has been finalised. The total working time for Exam (Parts A and B) is 3 hours.

IMPORTANT ASSESSMENT INFORMATION

1. Attendance requirements:
   It is the students' responsibility to attend and participate appropriately in all activities (such as lectures, tutorials, laboratories and practical work) scheduled for them, and to study all material provided to them or required to be accessed by them to maximise their chance of meeting the objectives of the course and to be informed of course-related activities and administration.
2. Requirements for students to complete each assessment item satisfactorily:
   To satisfactorily complete an individual assessment item a student must achieve at least 50% of the available marks . (Depending upon the requirements in Statement 4 below, students may not have to satisfactorily complete each assessment item to receive a passing grade in this course.)
3. Penalties for late submission of required work:
   If a student submits assignments or tutorial exercises after the due date without prior approval then a penalty of 10% of the total marks available for the assignment will apply for each working day late. The same penalty applies to students who submit later than the final day of an extension. No assignments will be accepted after model answers have been posted. Items submitted late are likely to be subject to processing delays.
4. Requirements for student to be awarded a passing grade in the course:
   To be assured of receiving a passing grade a student must achieve at least 40% in all of the weighted assessment items, achieve at least 50% in the examination and at least 50% of the total weighted marks available for the course.
5. Method used to combine assessment results to attain final grade:
   The final grades for students will be assigned on the basis of the weighted aggregate of the marks (or grades) obtained for each of the summative assessment items in the course.
6. Examination information:
   This is a closed examination. Candidates are allowed to bring only writing and drawing instruments into the examination. The examination consists of two parts. Part A is worth 20 marks and Part B is worth 80 marks.
7. Examination period when Deferred/Supplementary examinations will be held:
   Any Deferred or Supplementary examinations for this course will be held during the next examination period.
8. University Regulations:
   Students should read USQ Regulations 5.1 Definitions, 5.6. Assessment, and 5.10 Academic Misconduct for further information and to avoid actions which might contravene University Regulations. These regulations can be found at the URL http://www.usq.edu.au/corporateservices/calendar/part5.htm. Students should also read the Faculty of Business Guide to Policies and Procedures of the Faculty which can be found at the URL http://www.usq.edu.au/handbook/current/buspolproc.html.

ASSESSMENT NOTES

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

1. Learning Resources: Prescribed texts and materials (see above); recommended reference materials (see above); printed Introductory Book*, Book/s of Selected Readings*, and Study Book/s*; and course Website accessible via USQConnect. *part of the study package available from the USQ Bookshop
2. E-mail and Internet Access: Students will require access to e-mail and Internet access to USQConnect for this course.
3. Some study materials and important information about the course will be made available via the online discussion group. Students are therefore expected to access the discussion group regularly and read all postings. Tutorial exercises will be assigned during tutorials and will be due seven days later. It is the responsibility of students to ascertain whether a tutorial exercise was assigned during a tutorial. These exercises will not be posted on the discussion group. The practical test is treated in the same way as an examination. Students who do not attend will receive a mark of zero unless they provide an appropriate reason with supporting documentation.