Part A: Course Overview

Course Title: Practical Database Concepts

Credit Points: 12.00

Terms

Course Code

Campus

Career

School

Learning Mode

Teaching Period(s)

ISYS3412

City Campus

Undergraduate

171H School of Science

Face-to-Face

Sem 1 2020,
Sem 2 2020,
Sem 1 2021,
Sem 2 2021

ISYS3412

City Campus

Undergraduate

175H Computing Technologies

Face-to-Face

Sem 1 2022,
Sem 1 2023,
Sem 2 2023,
Sem 1 2024,
Sem 2 2024

ISYS3414

RMIT University Vietnam

Undergraduate

171H School of Science

Face-to-Face

Viet1 2020,
Viet3 2020,
Viet1 2021,
Viet2 2021

ISYS3414

RMIT University Vietnam

Undergraduate

175H Computing Technologies

Face-to-Face

Viet1 2022,
Viet2 2022,
Viet1 2023,
Viet2 2023,
Viet1 2024,
Viet3 2024

ISYS3433

RMIT Vietnam Hanoi Campus

Undergraduate

175H Computing Technologies

Face-to-Face

Viet1 2024,
Viet3 2024

Course Coordinator: Dr. Xiangmin Zhou

Course Coordinator Phone: -

Course Coordinator Email: xiangmin.zhou@rmit.edu.au

Course Coordinator Availability: By appointment, by email


Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities

None


Course Description

Databases and database technology are having a major impact on the growing use of computers. They play a critical role in almost all areas where computers are used.

This subject introduces you to basic database design and implementation concepts, database design techniques, and efficient data management. You will use structured query languages to manipulate data and perform a variety of tasks including querying and report writing to meet organisational needs.


Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

Program Learning Outcomes

This course contributes to the program learning outcomes for the following program(s):

BH120BIT - Bachelor of Engineering (Software Engineering) (Honours)
BH120CY - Bachelor of Engineering (Software Engineering) (Honours)
BH120VRI23 - Bachelor of Engineering (Software Engineering) (Honours)
BH120VH23 - Bachelor of Engineering (Software Engineering) (Honours)

PLO 1    Demonstrate a coherent and advanced understanding and knowledge of fundamental engineering and scientific theories, principles and concepts and apply advanced technical knowledge in specialist domain of engineering.  
PLO 4    Apply knowledge of established engineering methods to the solution of complex problems in the engineering discipline. 
PLO 5    Utilise mathematics, software, tools and techniques, referencing appropriate engineering standards and codes of practice, in the design of complex engineering systems. 
PLO 6    Use a systems engineering approach to synthesize and apply procedures for design, prototyping and testing to manage complex engineering projects.  
PLO 8    Communicate engineering designs and solutions respectfully and effectively, employing a range of advanced communication methods, in an individual or team environment, to diverse audiences. 

For more information on the program learning outcomes for your program, please see the program guide.


Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Describe the underlying theoretical basis of the relational database model and apply the theories into practice;
  2. Explain the main concepts for data modelling and characteristics of database systems;
  3. Develop a sound database design using conceptual modelling mechanisms such as entity-relationship diagrams;
  4. Develop a database based on a sound database design;
  5. Apply SQL as a programming language to define database schemas, update database contents and to extract data from databases for specific users’ information needs;
  6. Create then populate a normalised database based on a publicly available dataset, and visualise the results of queries against the dataset.


Overview of Learning Activities

The learning activities included in this course are:

  • Lectures: Key concepts are explained, course material is presented, and the subject matter is illustrated with demonstrations and examples.
  • Tute-lab sessions focus on analyse and problem solving of given scenarios, such as data modelling problems, and provide practice in the application of theory along with tutors and peers.
  • Moderated online discussion forums provide a question-answer forum for subject and assessment matters
  • Private study is important to work through the course learning material and gain practice at solving conceptual and technical problems.
  • Peer-assisted or mentor-led learning programs may be available.


Overview of Learning Resources

The course is supported by the Canvas learning management system which provides specific learning resources. See the RMIT Library Guide at http://rmit.libguides.com/compsci 


Overview of Assessment

Note: This course has no hurdle requirements.

Assessment Tasks

Assessment Task 1: Take-home assignment on ER Modeling and Relational Database Model
Weighting: 20%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2, 3, 4

Assessment Task 2: Take-home assignment on SQL Programming and Normalisation
Weighting: 30%
This assessment task supports CLO 1, 3, 4, 5

Assessment Task 3: Online Fortnightly Quizzes
Weighting: 15% (5 x 3%)
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2, 3, 5

Assessment Task 4: Project
Weighting: 35%
This assessment covers all course learning outcomes CLOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

If you have a long-term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program coordinator or Equitable Learning Services if you would like to find out more.