University of Maryland/Asian Division

CMIS 320 - Relational Databases

Term 4 3 Apr - 27 May 2006

Kadena TTh 2000 - 2245

David Wills

http:///sensei.ad.umuc.edu/dwills/cmis320/

PREREQUISITE:
CMIS 140 or CMIS 141A

DESCRIPTION:
A study of the functions and underlying concepts of relationally organized database systems. Data models are described and their application to database systems is discussed. The entity/relationship (E/R) model and Codd.s relational theory.including relational algebra, normalization and integrity constraints, and the Structured Query Language (SQL).are emphasized. Physical design and data administration issues are addressed. Projects include hands-on work with E/R and relational models (using industry-standard database software).

OBJECTIVES:
On successful completion of this course the student will:

• describe the relational model in detail
• describe how relational databases differ from other types of databases
• compare desktop, workgroup, and enterprise database environments
• compare various database architectures
• describe the purpose of the relational algebra and the relational calculus and how they differ
• describe the normalization process through the third normal form
• construct an entity/relationship diagram
• create a relational database using SQL
• access data from relational database tables
• discuss current and historical trends in the database industry

probable TEXTBOOK: Database Systems: Design, Implementation, & Managment Author: Peter Rob & Carlos Coronel

EVALUATION:

   Midterm Exam:   20%
   Final Exam:     30%
   Assignments:    50%

The grade of 'A' means "outstanding", i.e. mastery of the material. The grade of 'B' means "good". The grade of 'C' means "satisfactory".
Grades are curved and related to the class average. "Significantly above" the class average are the A's, "above" (or sometimes even at) the class average are the B's, at or below the class average are the C's. Significantly below the class average are the D's and F's.
Usually, in the 90's is an A, 80's is a B, 70's is a C.

PENALTIES: There are penalties for late work. All work must be submitted as specified.

INCOMPLETES: The grade of I is exceptional and given only to students whose completed course work has been qualitatively satisfactory but who have been unable to complete all course requirements because of illness or other extenuating circumstances beyond their control. The grade of I may be considered only for students who have completed at least fifty (50) percent of the total course work requirements and who have received a passing grade on all the course work which they have completed. the instructor retains the right to make the final decision on granting a student's request for an I, even though the student may meet the eligibility requirements for this grade.

POLICIES, PROCEDURES AND GRADES: IAW with the University of Maryland, University Catalog, Asian Division, and the Student Handbook (current editions). These cover essential information such as attendance, grading, make-up work and plagiarism.

MISCELLANEOUS: * Students are expected to spend between two and three hours outside of class on course materials and preparation for every one hour spent in the classroom. e.g. a UMAD course meets for approximately 5 hours per week and you will be expected to spend between 10 and 15 hours additional time outside of class on course work for an average of 20 hours per week.