Information Technology 441

ITEC 441: Database II

Prerequisite: ITEC 340 (Grade of "C" or better)

Credit Hours: (3)
 
A continuation of the introductory database course covering techniques used to model and manipulate large data sets.  Course provides more in-depth coverage of triggers, assertions, PL/SQL, logical design, and normalization.  Course introduces physical design of the database management system.  


Detailed Description of Content of Course

Topics include:
1. Theoretical basis for the relational model
2. Relational Algebra and advanced SQL
3. Storage and file structures
4. Indexes, retrieval plans, and tuning
5. Query processing and optimization
6. Constraints, types, domains, assertions, advanced triggers
7. Concurrency control, transactions, transaction isolation levels
8. Temporal databases, flashback capabilities
9. Null values, three valued logic
10. User defined types, object relational capabilities
11. Large objects


Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

Techniques of database design and implementation are discussed and practiced. Students complete assignments in database management.


Goals and Objectives of the Course
              
Students who complete the course will be able to:  
1. Describe the key attributes of a data retrieval language.  Demonstrate proficiency with the relational algebra or other mathematically based retrieval language.
2. Describe and apply basic concepts of file organization including the properties and architecture of physical devices such as disk drives.
3. Describe and compare methods for efficient retrieval of persistent data including indexes, hashing, and sequential access.
4. Describe and explain the steps in query processing, evaluate execution plans, and implement one or more operations from the relational algebra or other retrieval language.  
5. Explain the purpose of query optimization, recognize opportunities for optimization, draw and optimize expression trees.
6. Construct appropriate designs for databases that present significant complexities including temporal issues and null values.
7. Explain and implement elements of transaction control including appropriate resource sharing and transaction isolation levels.  Implement triggers to enforce complex constraints.
8. Describe and use current extensions of relational database technology such as object-relational or XML extensions.
9. Explain theoretical and practical uses and limitations of nested tables, arrays, and other user defined types as RDMS column types.
10. Explain methods for storing and retrieving large objects (video clips, pictures, documents, etc) from a database and explain the advantages and disadvantages of each method.


Assessment Measures
 
Students will be evaluated based on several given projects and a minimum of two examinations.


Other Course Information
None.


Review and Approval

Sept. 25, 2001       New Course        John P. Helm, Chair

Revised: June 1, 2012

Revised: 2014