Learning objectives
The module aims to provide the basic skills needed to create an informational system for industrial needs.
In particular, at the end of the module, students will be able to:
Create a relational database;
Get access to the data using SQL queries;
Create navigation masks for secure and dynamic data access (in read and write mode).
Prerequisites
The course does not have any specific prerequisites. Basic skills of computer science (e.g., variables, arrays, cycles, routines, objects, etc.) can facilitate understanding.
Course unit content
The module introduces the basic elements related to the design and to the implementation of operational informational systems. In this regard, the focus is on relational databases and on the use of SQL for the creation of queries for data retrieval and data modifications. In addition, some process mapping techniques will be introduced, as a powerful way to understand and to communicate (in a formal way) the logical functioning of the system that will be supported by the informational system.
Full programme
1 Relational Data Bases
1.1 Data, relationships and Meta Data
1.2 Normalisation and referential integrity
1.3 Relational algebra
1.4 Queries and the SQL language 1.5 DFunctions
2 Process mapping techniques
2.1 Flow diagrams
2.2 IDEF diagrams
2.3 BPMN diagrams
3 Development of an informational system
3.1 Creating tables and relations
3.2 Creating queries
3.3 Creating reports
3.4 Creating navigation masks
3.5 Automation and data security using VBA code
Bibliography
Reference Texts:
Dorbolò, D. Guidi, A., Guida a SQL, McGraw-Hill, Italia, 2000
Further readings:
Couch, A., Microsoft Access 2010 VBA Programming Inside Out, Microsoft Press, USA, 2010
Balter, A., Using Microsoft Access 2010, Que Publishing, Indiana, USA, 2010
Teaching methods
The module will be carried on in the computer lab, using Microsoft Access and VBA as the main developing tools. A small information system will be developed, similar to the one that students will have to present as a practical test.All the topics discussed will be introduced in an interactive way, using explanatory and / or concrete examples. In addition, all the files created during the lab’s sessions, will be made available to the students in advance, together with teaching notes, presentations and other teaching materials.
Assessment methods and criteria
The exam is based on a written and on an oral test. The written test is based on two parts: the first one consists of ten multiple-choice questions; the second one consists of two numeric exercises and two open answer questions. The oral test focuses, mainly, on the presentation of a small information system, developed by the students starting from a set of technical specifications given by the teacher. The oral examination also includes generic questions n addition to the re-discussion of the answers given in the written test.
Other information
Students will receive both lectures notes and power point presentations (prepared by the teacher) covering the entire program. However, the consultation of the recommended text books is highly recommended.Also the files used and developed in the information will make available, together to the file containing the entire Information
