IT 240 Introduction to Databases
Summary
This course introduces students to the design, implementation and use of desktop databases. Major topics include modeling/using Entity Relationship diagrams, creating/maintaining a database using a PC-based application, composing and using queries in Structured Query Language, creating and customizing forms and reports, and integrating databases with other sources of data and applications.
Texts
Database Concepts, David M. Kroenke and David J. Auer, 6th edition, Prentice Hall, 2013
ISBN-10: 0-13-274292-6 ISBN-13: 978-0-13-274292-4
Publishers website: http://www.mypearsonstore.com/bookstore/database-concepts-9780132742924
Required Software: Microsoft Access 2010 available in all CDM PC labs.
If you want to install it on your PC, it is available at MSDN Academic Alliance. Please read instructions carefully and follow all instructions to obtain the software.
Grading
There will be eight to ten assignments, four quizzes, a midterm and a final exam in this course.
Assignments (includes database project) 40%
Quizzes 10%
Midterm 25%
Final Exam 25%
All assignment descriptions/requirements will be posted on the course web pages on COL.
Each assignment will have a specific due date and time. Check COL frequently for assignments and announcements.
Be sure to read the assignment carefully, including the directions on how to submit the assignment. All assignment submissions should be done in COL.
Late submissions of assignments will not be accepted without approval.
Make-up examinations of any kind will not be given.
The following grading scale will be used:
Grade Percent
A 100-93
A- 92-90
B+ 89-87
B 86-83
B- 82-80
C+ 79-77
C 76-73
c- 72-70
D+ 69-67
D 66-60
F 59-0
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites for this class.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify the ubiquitous use of databases in everyday life
- Demonstrate the effects of redundancy, inconsistencies and lack of integrity when databases are poorly designed
- Apply Boolean logic, set theory, and relational algebra concepts in the construction of Structured Query Language (SQL) requests for retrieval of data
- Predict and confirm results using empirical evidence from publicly accessible data
- Create an Entity Relationship Diagram to graphically model user database requirements
- Construct and maintain a database within a domain that implements the constraints of the relational database model.
This syllabus is subject to change as necessary during the quarter. If a change occurs, it will be thoroughly addressed during class, posted under Announcements in D2L and sent via email.
Evaluations are a way for students to provide valuable feedback regarding their instructor and the course. Detailed feedback will enable the instructor to continuously tailor teaching methods and course
content to meet the learning goals of the course and the academic needs of the students. They are a requirement of the course and are key to continue to provide you with the highest quality of teaching. The
evaluations are anonymous; the instructor and administration do not track who entered what responses. A program is used to check if the student completed the evaluations, but the evaluation is completely
separate from the student’s identity. Since 100% participation is our goal, students are sent periodic reminders over three weeks. Students do not receive reminders once they complete the evaluation.
Students complete the evaluation online in CampusConnect.
This course will be subject to the university's academic integrity policy. More information can be found at http://academicintegrity.depaul.edu/ If you
have any questions be sure to consult with your professor.
All students are expected to abide by the University's Academic Integrity Policy which prohibits cheating and other misconduct in student coursework. Publicly sharing or posting online any prior or current materials from this course (including exam questions or answers), is considered to be providing unauthorized assistance prohibited by the policy. Both students who share/post and students who access or use such materials are considered to be cheating under the Policy and will be subject to sanctions for violations of Academic Integrity.
All students are required to manage their class schedules each term in accordance with the deadlines for enrolling and withdrawing as indicated in the University Academic Calendar. Information on enrollment, withdrawal, grading and incompletes can be found at http://www.cdm.depaul.edu/Current%20Students/Pages/PoliciesandProcedures.aspx.
Students who feel they may need an accommodation based on the impact of a disability should contact the instructor privately to discuss their specific needs. All discussions will remain confidential.
To ensure that you receive the most appropriate accommodation based on your needs, contact the instructor as early as possible in the quarter (preferably within the first week of class), and make sure that
you have contacted the Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD) at:
Lewis Center 1420, 25 East Jackson Blvd.
Phone number: (312)362-8002
Fax: (312)362-6544
TTY: (773)325.7296