DATA AND DATABASE SYSTEMS - 2026/7

Module Overview

This module introduces students to the fundamental concepts of data storage with a focus on relational database systems. Students will learn database design and development to solve real-world problems. The module uses a problem-based approach to provide students with the necessary support to develop their analytical and problem-solving skills.

Module provider

Computer Science

Module Leader

CIROVIC Mariam (CS & EE)

Number of Credits: 15

ECTS Credits: 7.5

Framework: FHEQ Level 4

Module cap (Maximum number of students): N/A

Module Availability

Semester 1

Prerequisites / Co-requisites

N/A

Module content

• Data, Information and Knowledge; types of Data
• Persistent data formats: files and databases
• Data modelling using the (Enhanced) Entity-Relationship Model
• The Relational Data Model 
  • Relational theory
  • Functional dependencies and normalisation
  • Transactions 
  • Indexing, query processing and optimisation
• Translation of Entity-Relationship Models to relational schemas
• Data definition and manipulation using the query language SQL
• Architecture and functions of a Database Management System (DBMS)
• Semi-structured data storage using NoSQL models
• File manipulation and database querying using a programming interface
• Professional, Security and Ethical considerations for Database Management Systems
• Current database trends and applications

Assessment pattern

Alternative Assessment

Not Applicable

Assessment Strategy

The assessment strategy is designed to provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate all the learning outcomes of this module. Students will need to have a clear understanding of key database concepts as well as appreciate the importance of both theory and practical problem-solving skills. Students will need the ability to think logically and critically. Summative assessment 

• An open-book in-semester test: This test will ensure that you have a sound understanding of the important basic concepts of database systems mid-way through the semester (LO1, LO2). 
• An open-book Examination. The Examination will assess a deeper understanding of the concepts and practical skills; students will use their problem-solving and critical analysis abilities to respond to questions based on given case studies (LO2, LO5). 

Formative assessment and Feedback 

• Weekly quizzes assess the understanding of key concepts and provide immediate feedback. 
• A group database design exercise will provide the opportunity for peer feedback. 
• he use of Poll Everywhere offers formative feedback opportunities throughout the module. 
• Verbal feedback is also given in lab sessions as the students attempt the lab exercises. 
• The online discussion forum will be another channel to constantly give feedback to students.

Module aims

• Develop students' understanding of the theory, design, and development of database systems and the key role database systems play in the real world
• Develop students' analytical and problem-solving skills via modelling and manipulating data of real-world problems

Learning outcomes

Methods of Teaching / Learning

The learning and teaching strategy is designed to: use a problem-based approach to develop students' understanding of applying theoretical and practical knowledge to solve real-world problems in database design and development. The skills gained will allow students to extend their knowledge via independent study and practical work. The learning and teaching methods include: 

• In-person Lectures/tutorials 
• In-person Lab sessions
• Captured content
• Discussion forums 

The lectures introduce the core concepts, which are reinforced through examples and activities. Students will apply their knowledge in the practical lab sessions, using open-source data modelling software and database management systems. Pre-recorded bite-size videos of the module content are provided for preparation and revision in the SurreyLearn VLE. The VLE also provides discussion forums to support the module material and assessments. Individual and general feedback is continuously provided to support the students' learning.

Indicated Lecture Hours (which may also include seminars, tutorials, workshops and other contact time) are approximate and may include in-class tests where one or more of these are an assessment on the module. In-class tests are scheduled/organised separately to taught content and will be published on to student personal timetables, where they apply to taken modules, as soon as they are finalised by central administration. This will usually be after the initial publication of the teaching timetable for the relevant semester.

Reading list

https://readinglists.surrey.ac.uk
Upon accessing the reading list, please search for the module using the module code: COM1035

Other information

The school of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering is committed to developing graduates with strengths in Employability, Digital Capabilities, Global and Cultural Capabilities, Sustainability, and Resourcefulness and Resilience. This module is designed to allow students to develop knowledge, skills, and capabilities in the following areas: 

Digital Capabilities 

This module covers the foundational theory behind Database Systems, with lab-based sessions to give students the practical skills to design and develop their own databases. Database systems are a key component of everyday interactions in the real world, and the skills taught on this module are highly valued in industry. This module prepares students for Software Engineering and Collaborative Project using Web Applications. 

Employability 

By learning about building database systems that solve real life problems, students are equipped with theoretical skills, practical problem-solving skills, and design and development skills. Students are also made aware of professional, ethical and security issues related to working with database systems. Transferable skills are developed via problem solving and teamwork. All of these are highly valuable to employers. 

Global and Cultural Skills 

The tools and languages used on this module are used internationally. This module allows students to build skills that will allow them to develop applications with global reach and collaborate with their peers around the world as most of these applications form the basis of the web sites that we interact with every day. 

Resourcefulness and Resilience 

Given a business scenario, how does a database developer model that scenario and build a system that captures and allows users to access the relevant information? This module builds practical problem-solving skills by teaching students how to reason about and solve new unseen problems through combining the foundation theory taught with practical technologies for systems that are in everyday use. 

Sustainability 

Database systems can store and track data for environmental and agricultural monitoring, energy efficiency and urban planning. Students will gain an awareness of the role databases can play in the UN's sustainable development goals.

Programmes this module appears in

Please note that the information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change. This record contains information for the most up to date version of the programme / module for the 2026/7 academic year.