Download CCN2124 Introduction to Databases

July 2015
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hong Kong Community College
Subject Description Form
Subject Code
CCN2124
Subject Title
Introduction to Databases
Level
2
Credit Value
3
Medium of
Instruction
English
Pre-requisite /
Co-requisite/
Exclusion
Nil
Objectives
This subject equips students with basic concepts and essential skills in
developing databases so as to support different types of business
information systems. It provides training which enables students to learn
how to design and operate a database, and to understand database
systems–from the analysis and design stages to the operating stage using
a DBMS tool. This subject also helps students develop the analytical
mind, professional attitude, and design skills needed for their future
career development.
Intended Learning
Outcomes
Upon completion of the subject, students will be able to:
(a) understand the basic concepts of relational model and database
systems.
(b) model the data found in an organisation critically.
(c) design a database and implement it using a DBMS professionally.
(d) understand the issues related to database administration.
Subject Synopsis/
Indicative Syllabus
Basic Concepts and Database Models
Database system and its objectives; DBMS and its components;
Overview of information system development using databases.
Relational Data Model
Relations; Type of keys; Functional dependencies; Normalisation;
Structured query language (SQL); Use of SQL for data definition,
relational query and data modification.
Data Modeling
Entity-relationship modelling; Unified modelling language (UML) entity
relationship; Attribute specifications; Business rules; Data model
1
July 2015
validation.
Database Design
Representing entities with relational model; Relationship representation;
Weak entity treatment; Referential integrity enforcement.
Database Administration
Security and integrity; Concurrency control; Database backup; Database
recovery.
Teaching/Learning
Methodology
Lectures will focus on the introduction and explanation of theories,
concepts, techniques and methodologies in database systems supported
by hypothetical and real examples wherever appropriate.
Occasional group discussions and activities may be conducted to
stimulate students’ interest or awareness of practical implications of
some concepts.
Tutorials will provide students with the opportunity to deepen and
consolidate their understanding of the concepts taught in lectures. They
will also help students apply theories to the analysis of real-life issues
when developing database systems and enhance their knowledge and
skills in operating database systems using database management system
tools. Activities in tutorials may include exercises, student presentations
and discussions of problems.
Assessment Methods A variety of assessment tools will be used to develop and assess students’
achievement of the subject intended learning outcomes.
in Alignment with
Intended Learning
Outcomes
Specific assessment
%
Intended subject learning
methods/tasks
weighting
Continuous Assessment*
outcomes to be assessed
a
b
c

d
60

Test
25



Assignment 1
15



Assignment 2
20




Final Examination
40




Total
100
*Continuous assessment items and/or weighting may be adjusted by the subject
team subject to approval of the College Programme Committee.
To pass this subject, students are required to obtain Grade D or above in
both the Continuous Assessment and Final Examination.
Student Study
Class contact
Hours
2
July 2015
Effort Expected

Lecture
26

Tutorial
13
Other student study effort

Self-study
52

Continuous Assessment
39
Total student study effort
Reading List and
References
130
Recommended Textbook
Kroenke, D. & Auer, D. (2011). Database concepts. (5th ed.), Prentice
Hall.
References
Coronel, C., Morris, S. & Rob, P. (2011). Database systems: Design,
implementation & management. (9th ed.), Cengage Learning.
Mannino, M. V. (2007). Database design, application development, &
administration. (3rd ed.), McGraw-Hill.
Post, G. V. (2005). Database management systems: Designing &
building business applications. (3rd ed.), McGraw-Hill.
3