database managemenT

Instructor:

berente@case.edu

(216) 368-6556

Requirements

Text:  Hoffer, Prescott, & McFadden, Modern Database Management, Eighth Edition, 2007, Pearson Prentice Hall

Other Requirements:

• Personal computer with Microsoft Access 2003 and Visio 2003

Optional Text:  Mastering Microsoft Office Access 2003, Balter, Alison, 2003, Sams

Course Description

The best way to learn something is to do it.  In this course there will be no tests, lectures will be minimal, and we will focus on actual experience.  These experiences will include:

• Development of databases in Microsoft Access
• Design of databases using Microsoft Visio
• Normalization of database designs
• SQL exercises and queries using on-line Microsoft SQL Server
• Experience with open-source MySQL database and web integration
• Two projects where students comprehensively apply the entire semester’s lessons
• Exposure to real-life business applications of databases

Academic Integrity

The instructors expect all students to meet the highest standards of intellectual honesty and to fulfill the objectives of the Case Statement of Ethics, which can be found at the following site:  http://studentaffairs.case.edu/office/integrity/policy.html .

Grading

Grading will be based on a total of 300 points:

• Homework = 120 points.  There will be twelve homework assignments, each of which is worth 10 points.  Homework is due the night before class via email, and I will reply as they are received to avoid misunderstandings.  Assignments turned in after 9 AM the day of class will automatically lose two points.  Assignments will no longer be accepted once class has started, and the grade for the assignment will be 0.  
• Class Exercises = 100 points.  There will be twenty class-time exercises over the course of the semester.  Each will be worth 5 points and will be due when indicated by the instructor.  In the case of absences, students must get prior approval or cannot makeup in-class exercises.
• Projects = 80 points.  There will be two projects.  The midterm project is worth 30 points, and the final project is worth 50 points.  These projects must be turned in by midnight on the day they are due.

Grades will be assigned as follows:

                        270-300 points               A

                        240-269 points               B

                        210-239 points               C

                        180-209 points               D

                        <179 points                   F

Students are expected to do their own work.  Although responsible study groups for discussing concepts and problem difficulties are encouraged, homework assignments and projects are intended to assess a student’s comprehension.  In no case should another’s work be substituted for your own.  You are expected to do your own work and complete your homework and projects independently.

Schedule