What will I learn on this module?
You will understand the conceptual basis for current database technology and will be able to apply such knowledge in implementing database applications.
You will be able to understand data modelling through the example of the relational model; be able to design and manipulate relational databases with relational algebra and SQL; normalise relational data structures. You will appreciate limitations of data models and the need for database programming to achieve complete solutions, write transactions and procedures for relational databases, specify security for operations, and apply business rules.
You will gain knowledge of advanced object models, their rationale, advantages and disadvantages, construct object-relational databases with nested capability, write user-defined types as ADTs and subtypes for inheritance, use object features in Oracle database system.
You will be able to learn and employ data warehousing techniques to integrate and consolidate data from different sources, which can then be used for business reporting and exploratory data analysis. In addition, you will realise the responsibilities of database designers with respect to professional, legal, security and ethical issues.
How will I learn on this module?
You will attend weekly lectures and lab-based seminars to learn a range of topics. The lectures will provide key concepts and ideas which are then followed by hands-on lab sessions whereby you will develop key skills in database analysis, design and implementation using Oracle database system and a range of useful tools and methods.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be given advice and feedback on your formative assessment (e.g., lab exercises) during the timetabled classes. In addition, the eLP module instance will be used to provide extensive supporting material. Constructive and written feedback on first summative assessment will provide you focused guidance on how to improve your work in the following summative assessment. Specific sessions will provide you with further directed guidance on successful completion of your summative assessments.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Key data modelling concepts, application of database theory, principles for supporting business and information systems.
2. Key concepts of data warehousing.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. Conceptual data modelling, relational database design and implementation in SQL & PL/SQL, and object-based databases.
4. Design and Implementation of a data warehouse using Oracle database system.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Realise the responsibilities of database designers with respect to professional, legal, security and ethical issues.
How will I be assessed?
Formative assessment: lab exercises carried out within seminars will build up to form a basis of the two summative assessments. Feedback will be given during lab sessions.
Summative assessment: two written assignments.
• The 1st coursework assessment will comprise analysis, design and implementation of a relational database (50%) and will test MLOs 1, 3 and 5.
• The 2nd coursework assessment will comprise design and implementation of an object-relational database and a data warehouse (50%), which will test MLOs 2, 3 and 4.
Feedback: You will be given detailed feedback on the 1st group assignment clearly identifying both the weaknesses and strong points of the work. As this will be set approximately half-way through the module it will enable the students to identify those areas where they need to focus their efforts on in their 2nd assignment.
Pre-requisite(s)
KC7020 Information Organization and Access
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
*TBA
Course info
Credits 20
Level of Study Postgraduate
Mode of Study 2 years Full Time
Department Computer and Information Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025 or January 2026
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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