Course Information

• Course Number: IT 214
• Course Title: Database Fundamentals
• Semester: Fall 2013
• Class Day/Time: Internet
• Instructor: Lam Phung
• Textbook: Database Systems: Design, Implementation, and Management with Guide to MySQL, Pratt, Last, Rob and Coronel, Thomson Course Technology Publisher Website
• Catalog Info: IT 214

My Experience With This Course

As a Data Analyst, it is important for me to know about all the various aspects of data collection, data storage and data management. Because I had a limited background in database methodology, I was eager to take this class. The Database Fundamentals course was divided into two distinct sections. The first half of the course focused on the history and methodologies of databases, especially relational databases. The second half of the course was devoted to using MySql to build, populate and query databases. A comprehensive final project required incorporating elements from both sections of the course.

During the first half of the course we learned about the history of file storage systems. We also learned the principles of developing a good relational database design. A significant part of the class dealt with using Visio software to create Entity Relationship Diagrams (ERDs). An ERD is a tool used in defining the entities, relationships and data elements in a database.

In the second half of the class we learned the database software, MySql. Using MySql we were able to create database tables and relationships between those tables, enter data into those tables, and create queries to answer questions about the data.

The final project was to design a relational database. This involved using the relational database methodology and the Visio diagrams from the first part of the course and the MySql code learned in the second part of the course. The result was an operational database. There was also an optional end-of-course research paper and video presentation. I chose the topic Big Data.