Databases (5 cr)

Evaluation scale

H-5

Content scheduling

In this course, students learn to use and design relational databases as well as understand differences to NoSQL/document databases. First, students familiarize with database thinking and the principles of data management from a quality perspective. Key topics include data modeling using ER diagrams, relational schema representations and normalization technique for validating the quality of the database design. Second, students apply structured query language (SQL) to create a database (SQL DDL), and to manipulate and search data in the database (SQL DML). Last, students learn differences between SQL and NoSQL databases through desinging and using MongoDB document database. The course consists of lectures, exercises, a practical work and final exam.

Topics (and hours used in teaching sessions) in the order of appearance:
- Relational DBMS and DB use 6h
- Relational database design 9h
- Basics of SQL 18h
- Introduction to document database MongoDB 6h

Objective

After completing the course the student can:
- understand different types of databases and evaluate their feasibility for different purposes.
- plan and implement a database based on requirements and search and modify data in the database
- use at least one well-known database management system
- describe database management tasks

Content

- Different types of databases
- Definition, planning and implementation of databases
- SQL basics
- Database administration with DBMS
- Management principles for databases

Materials

Lecture slides and examples by the teacher
Lot of internet material available
Supporting books about relational databases and SQL are available in Internet.
MongoDB has good tutorials and documentation as well.

Teaching methods

The course consists of
1) lecture and home exercises (small queries and design tasks)
2) personal practical work (creating your own database) and
3) exam (testing your acquired skills).

Lecture exercises are divided into weekly topics. Each week introduces a new topic that builds on top of previous weeks. Each lecture begins with an introduction to the topic of the week, which includes practical examples and learning material. Exercises are done individually or in small groups with the help of the teacher .

NOTE! Lecture exercises can be returned only by participating in the lecture session!

Exam schedules

The exam is performed in ViLLE system www.ville.utu.fi which supports SQLite.
Exam and Re-exams, i.e. 2nd and 3rd exams, are e-exams in the e-exam room premises (EduCity, Library) where Internet use is not allowed. First exam is open until the end date of this course and re-exams are open 6 months after the course has ended.

International connections

- Learning by doing and trial & error with lecture exercises,
- Introductory lectures and examples provided by the teacher.
- Collaborating with other students in the lectures.

Completion alternatives

Participation in the lecture is not compulsory, but exercises can be returned only during the lecture.

Online course is available for those who can't participate on lectures. This self-study option has slightly different emphasis of topics and grading. These will be introduced in the beginning of the course in the first lecture. Students can choose their preferred method after the first lecture.

Student workload

Introduction lecture 2h
Participating weekly in lectures (exercises): a' 3 hours * 13 = 40h
Home exercises 10h
Individual practical work 60h
Exam + preparing 20h

Student workload is about 5-8 h / week if you are new to relational databases.

Further information

All returns and communications take place through the It's Learning platform (except for the online course).

There are no pre-requisites for course performance in this course, and this course does not require previously acquired skills. It is necessary to have your own computer and know how to use it.

We use the relational database and its management environment for practical training (MySQL, MariaDB, SQLite or similar used in UwAmp, XAMPP or WAMP or similar) and must be installed on the student's personal computer. The necessary applications are installed in a lecture together.

In addition to relational databases, students learn about MongoDB cloud services, Mongo Shell, and practice designing and using a document-based database.