Introduction to Database Design

Database design is crucial to effectively implement a relational database. In this course we discuss the parts of a database, how to model data, database construction, and developing a database in a business environment. These skills are fundamental to managing database backed websites, or any relational database application.
Outline
Week 1:
  • Describe and define Database Management System (DBMS)
  • List and evaluate database models
  • Describe the relational database model
  • Describe the role of databases in information management
Week 2:
  • Define business entities and business rules
  • Describe entities and tables
  • Describe attributes and columns
  • Understand data types
  • Understand relationships and cardinality
Week 3:
  • Understand Data Definition Language (DDL)
  • Understand Data Manipulation Language (DML)
  • Understand Data Query Language (DQL)
  • Undetstand the role of SQL in the relational database
  • Understand rudimentary SQL commands
  • Describe database construction methods
Week 4:
  • Understand primary keys
  • Understand surrogate and composite keys
  • Understand foreign keys
  • Understand normalization and normal forms
  • Understand denormalization
  • Identify and resolve anomalies
Week 5:
  • Understand entity relationship modeling
  • Create ER diagrams
  • Understand process modeling
  • Implement a database
Week 6:
  • Describe naming conventions
  • Understand indices
  • Understand the client/server model
  • Understand how databases are used with applications
  • Understand how databases are used with the web
  • List and evaluate common database application languages
Prerequisites
None
Requirements
Microsoft Access 97 or later, OR OpenOffice Base, OR Filemaker Pro. Note that OpenOffice Base is available as a free download.

Books:
Required Book Databases Demystified

Additional information:

Your place in the course is confirmed by your payment. Introductory courses are intended for students with no experience in the subject matter and are seeking beginner level training.

Refund Policy: Please read our Terms and Refund Policy before registering for this course.

Additional Cost: Book and software might be required for the course. Read the Requirements and Book section for more information. Course fee does not include the book and software cost .

How eClasses Work:Instructors post lectures (text-based, no video or audio), reading selections, and hands-on assignments once a week in the online classroom. Students can discuss the assignments with the instructor and amongst themselves in the classroom area. This format has no set meeting time, which allows students to attend class at a time most convenient to them, yet still provides logically organized communication between class participants. Students can apply for the completion certificate after finishing the class.

1987

Price: $180.00
IWA-HWG Price: $80.00
Course No.: MS300
Instructor: Katharine Osborne
Co-instructor/TA:
CEUs: 3
Duration: 6 weeks
Open Courses:
Start Date: Apr 02, 2012
(Register by: Apr 05, 2012)
Start Date: Jun 11, 2012
(Register by: Jun 14, 2012)
Start Date: Sep 17, 2012
(Register by: Sep 20, 2012)
Start Date: Nov 12, 2012
(Register by: Nov 15, 2012)

Testimonials

Instructor's Profile:
InstructorKatharine Osborne has been a web developer since 1996, and a Unix administrator since 1995. She has been building database backed web applications since 1998 using MySQL, Perl, and PHP. Her teaching experience encompasses ecommerce, web development, programming, and database subjects at the University level. She now owns a web development consultancy helping small businesses establish and improve their web presence.
Before you register for this class, please read the Outline, Prerequisites, Requirements, Books, and Refund Policy sections carefully.
 

 Testimonials

Ratings
"Great introduction to database design and good overview of how databases are implemented. I enjoyed this class and learned a lot. I'm looking forward to the advanced classes using mySQL." - Philip Napora
"Although I had previous experience in MySQL for a couple of years, I was glad to experience this class as it gave me insight into properly building a database from the ground floor. I would highly recommend this to beginners and intermediates alike." - Joshua Moran
"This was a great class and I will continue on. This class has made me aware that there is much to be acquired still.
Thank you" - Antonio Chavez
"Wonderful class. Has given me the opportunity to move up at work. Thank you!" - Nichole Browning
"Instructor's response were prompt, clear, and detailed. She also provided excellent supplemental materials." - Renee Morris
"I enjoy the course. Katharine was helpful in giving comments on the assignments." - NORSHIDAH MOHAMED
"Wonderful class. I learned alot in a short amount of time. I would recommend it for anyone wanting an understanding of database design." - Lisa Moll
"Wonderful way to learn new things. I appreciate all who coordinate this." - Martin Naugher
"Being a graphic designer, with no experience in this area, I was concerned I would not be able to keep the pace with the class, but the instructor went beyond expectations to help me really understand and comprehend. Katharine is a excellent teacher and I really appreciate her extra support. Thank You. Julianna Farresta" - Julianna Farresta
"I enjoyed taking this course as it provided a great opportunity to get hands on experience in developing a database design from concept to established structure and learning the process over the 6 week instructional period. The instructor provided an excellent set of course notes which by far can provide a good level of instruction on its own. Her summplementary exercises relating to use of Access were lucid and I highly recommend this course to those interested in database design." - Dana Mah