Database Fundamentals and Applications

COURSE OBJECTIVE
In an increasingly data-driven world, database systems play a central role in data retrieval, manipulation, and storage. Although some users may be hardly aware of it, anyone browsing the World Wide Web (by using services provided by companies such as Google, Amazon, and Booking.com) is in fact a user of highly advanced database systems. In addition, the reach of such systems goes well beyond just the digital economy. Most enterprises use one or more databases to keep track of important data (e.g., their personnel, clients, payments, sales, and so on). Obviously these systems need to be robust and efficient, in terms of handling simultaneous queries, internal consistency, and durability of information stored by the database.

This course is aimed at teaching participants about the theoretical fundamentals of databases systems. Special attention is paid to a deep understanding of relational databases, relational algebra, and how to develop conceptual database models. Moreover, students will acquire skills on several advanced topics (e.g., efficiency, robustness of the system, and semi-structured data). The theory provided in this course is complemented by weekly computer sessions, in which participants get to work on practical group assignments. In addition to these group assignments, participants are expected to read relevant literature and work on individual homework assignments.

COURSE CONTENT
The course is focused on relational databases and XML. Much attention will be paid to the relational model, relational algebra, and SQL queries. In addition, the course will focus on database design, functional dependencies, and integrity constraints as well as transaction processing and concurrency control.

FORM OF TUITION
Lectures, tutorials, computer sessions.

Individual homework assignments will be discussed during the tutorials. Computer sessions will allow students to work on group assignments.

TYPE OF ASSESSMENT
Written exam (60% of the final grade), group assignments (40% of the final grade).