Chapter 9 - Database Systems

Outcomes

  • Recognize fundamental knowledge of the role, structure, and characteristics of database systems, e.g.,
    • The rationale for collecting, processing, and analyzing data in various environments.
    • Basic ideas of the relational models and alternatives to it.
    • The kinds of files used to store data and important tradeoffs involved in designing and implementing the database for a particular purpose.
    • Computers are used to analyze data for the purpose of discovering inferences that can be made from that data rather than to look of specific data (data mining).
    • The capability of computer analysis to identify individuals without personally identifiable information, e.g., zip code and birthdate.

 

  • Apply knowledge/understanding of database technology in examining security and societal issues, e.g.,
    • Analyze actual or proposed uses of database technology legal, ethical/moral, information security, correctness, etc. issues taking into account the data and people involved.
    • Analyze various issues to formulate responsibility and liability of various stakeholders, i.e., retail business, data brokers, purchasers of data, government, and users/consumers.

 

Activities

Reading Guide

In order to guide your reading we have designated each section into one of three categories:

  • Essential - You should thoroughly read this material and be prepared to answer questions about this material on assessments.
  • Important - You should thoroughly read this material and be prepared to participate in in-class discussions/activities about this material.
  • Useful - We feel that this material is worth knowing and may supplement other material in the chapter. However, we do not plan on assessing or discussing (unless you ask questions).
Section Essential Important Useful
9.1 Database Fundamentals X    
9.2 The Relational Model X    
9.3 Object-Oriented Databases   X  
9.4 Maintaining Database Integrity     X
9.5 Traditional File Structures X    
9.6 Data Mining X    
9.7 Social Impact of Database Technology X    

 

Video Resources

The video from Crash Course CS that partially corresponds with this chapter fits BETTER with our discussion in Chapter 11 about Artificial Intelligence. We will skip it until then.

 

Study Guide

The competency demo for this chapter will consist of several questions from the following study guide. As you study this chapter we suggest you work through the materials in this study guide and ask questions if you need clarifications.

 

Study Questions

After you complete the readings for this unit/chapter you should arrange to meet with your groupmates and work on the following activities.

 

Based on these questions we will prepare additional materials to help clarify issues.