DATABASES
cod. 09178

Academic year 2018/19
2° year of course - First semester
Professor
Enea ZAFFANELLA
Academic discipline
Informatica (INF/01)
Field
Discipline informatiche
Type of training activity
Characterising
84 hours
of face-to-face activities
9 credits
hub:
course unit
in ITALIAN

Learning objectives

Knowledge and understanding
The course is divided in two parts. The goal of the first part is to introduce Data Base Management Systems, with special regard to those based on the relational data model, and the many ways to interact with them. The second part of the course introduces the methodologies and techniques that are needed for a correct design of a relational database.

Applying knowledge and understanding
The theoretical notions are actively used for the design and implementation of relational data bases in the context of a specific DBMS (PostgreSQL). The exercises on the use of the SQL language are primarily focused on the correctness, readability and portability of queries. The exercises on data base design are focused on evaluating the adequacy of the schema to the application context, as well as on the evaluation of its robustness and flexibility.

Making judgements
The part of the course dedicated to data base design shows that the same design problem can be tackled and solved in different ways: the student should therefore critically compare the design alternatives, stressing pros and conses.

Communication skills
The exercises on the design of data bases require the ability to understand and effectively communicate the main characteristics of the specific application considered, at different levels of abstraction. The initial phases of the design, focused on requirement analysis, emphasizes communication skills in a non-specialized context. The other phases, which are closer to the implementation, will exercise the ability to effectively communicate at a more technical level.

Learning skills
The theoretical study and practical application of the basic notions of relational DBMS, besides being mandatory in the context of a Computer Science degree, are also essential to any further study on data base systems, also allowing for a better understanding of technological advances in the field.

Prerequisites

The knowledge of basic programming languages concepts is mandatory.
The knowledge of the basic concepts of operating systems and
communication networks is also helpful (even though not strictly
required).

Course unit content

Introduction to Data Base Management Systems.
The relational data model.
Relational algebra and relational calculus.
The SQL language.
Interfacing SQL with mainstream programming languages.
Transaction management.
Security and access right management.
Active databases.
Database design methodologies: conceptual, logical and phisical design
of the data base.
The Entity-Relationship model.
Normalization of database schemas.

The course will also introduce the student to a specific Data Base
Management System (PostgreSQL), which will be used to rediscuss, in a
practical context, the topics listed above.

Full programme

- - -

Bibliography

P. Atzeni, S. Ceri, P. Fraternali, S. Paraboschi, R. Torlone.
Basi di dati: modelli e linguaggi di interrogazione,
McGraw-Hill, 2013 (4th edition).

or

J. Ullman, J. Widom.
A First Course in Database Systems (2nd Edition),
Prentice Hall, 2002.

PostgreSQL 9.3
Documentation
The PostgreSQL Global Development Group
The PostgreSQL Global Development Group

Some lectures will be based on material that can be downloaded from the web.

Teaching methods

Lectures, guided exercises.

Assessment methods and criteria

Written and oral exam.

Other information

- - -

2030 agenda goals for sustainable development

- - -