Databases, Interfaces and Software Design Principles

Code	School	Level	Credits	Semesters
COMP4128	School of Computer Science	4	20	Autumn China

Code: COMP4128
School: School of Computer Science
Level: 4
Credits: 20
Semesters: Autumn China

Summary

Databases are everywhere. Via a multitude of different user interfaces, we interact with many different databases every day, whether using the web, electronic calendars, diaries or timetables, searching for contact details, or looking for directions using a mobile phone. As such, databases need to be both easy to use and fast. This module focusses on both the theory and practice of databases and interfaces to them. We examine the fundamentals of the relational database model, as well as implementations of the model in database management systems (DBMS) and languages to interact with them such as Structured Query Language (SQL). We explore relevant software design principles such as understanding user needs, requirements and software specifications and how this relates to database design and implementation. And because databases do not exist in isolation, we also examine how to design and build ways to interact with them, specifically via web development for which database access is key, as well as developing an understanding of how databases and their access are organised on networks, and containerised approaches to software development.

Target Students

Available to Level 4 PGT students in the School of Computer Science with no previous degree related to computer science. Available to students with intercalated year in computer science. This module is not available to students not listed above without explicit approval from the module convenor(s). This module is part of the Software Engineering theme in the School of Computer Science.

Classes

One 1-hour lecture each week for 12 weeks
One 2-hour lecture each week for 12 weeks
One 2-hour computing each week for 12 weeks

Assessment

30% Coursework 1
70% Coursework 2

Assessed by end of autumn semester

Educational Aims

To provide students with a general introduction to the theory and practice of database systems.To enable students to gain experience with a modern (relational) database system through the use of the SQL language.To give an understanding of the structure and workings of relational database systems.To enable students to gain experience with design and implementation of database driven web interfaces.To give an understanding of the principles of software engineering design through determining user needs and requirements capture.To provide experience of working with databases and their interfaces in a networked environment.To gain experience of containerised development practices.

Learning Outcomes

Conveners

Conveners unspecified.

View in Curriculum Catalogue

Last updated 09/01/2025.