Database Development

Databases are now such an integral part of our day-to-day life that we are often not aware that we are using one.  To illustrate this point, a range of example databases are demonstrated and discussed.  The longevity and popularity of a particular type of database software called Database Management System (DBMS) is examined.  The typical functions and services (including data integrity, authorisation and security) that enable DBMS to manage and secure data are discussed. Example DBMSs (e.g. Microsoft SQL Server and MySQL) are used to illustrate these services.

This module examines how a DBMS can be used to meet the needs of a particular case study.  This is achieved using a structured approach to the creation of a database system, which is called the Database Systems Development Lifecycle (DSDL).  The stages of the DSDL are discussed with particular attention to the earlier stages including database planning, systems definition, requirements collection and analysis and database design.

Ensuring that the database has all of the data required to meet the needs of a particular case study is key to the success of a database system.  A popular database design technique used to identify the required data is called entity-relationship (ER) modelling and this technique is discussed and illustrated.  The database design technique of normalisation is also explored as a means of building/validating a database.

• This module begins with a discussion on our digital environment and how recent advancements in technologies have resulted in what is commonly referred to as the ‘data explosion’. Vast quantities of data (structured and unstructured) are being created and businesses are seeking ways to effectively capture, organise and secure this valuable asset.  This module examines how database technologies can fulfil this role.
• There are various ways to represent data in a database however this module explores the power and simplicity of the relational data model.  Through practical classes, students are introduced to a relational DBMS and learn how to create, maintain and access data using a relational database language called Structured Query Language (SQL).  Examples of how relational databases can be maliciously attacked are discussed (e.g. SQL Injections).
• This module ensures that students have an excellent grounding in the fundamental knowledge (DBMS functions and services and the Database Development Lifecycle) and skills (ER modelling, normalisation and SQL programming) associated with developing database systems.

At the end of this module the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate a broad knowledge of the how database management system (DBMS).
• Demonstrate a broad knowledge of the stages of the database system development lifecycle which enables the creation of a database system to meet the requirements of users
• Demonstrate understanding of the core theories and principles associated with the relational data model.
• Use a range of routine skills and techniques to produce a conceptual and logical design for a database.
• Use of a range of standard functions and services provided by a relational database management system (DBMS) to implement a prototype database system.

This is an SCQF Level 8 module, and upon successful completion, participants will be awarded 20 credits.

 

Delivery 

To be confirmed.

 

Course presenter

This module will be delivered by Dr Junkang Feng.

 

Funding

This course may be available on a fully funded basis to some delegates.  Further details, including regarding eligibility, are available under Funding Support.

If you have any questions, please contact us at cpd@uws.ac.uk.

 

NOTE: This is a university module and upon approval of your application, you will be invited to register and then supported to complete enrolment. To enrol on the university system, the first step involves security set-up using the Microsoft Authenticator app; you will need to ensure that you have a compatible smartphone.

Further information is available at the Student Information Portal.

To access this module via the CPD route, individuals should be ordinarily resident in Scotland.  If you do not meet this criteria, please enquire here.