COSC 404 Database System Implementation

Spring (Winter Term 2) 2012 - University of British Columbia Okanagan

Overview

COSC 404 provides an overview of how database systems are built including topics such as query processing, transactions, concurrency, and reliability. Although the course provides foundational material for students that will engage in database research, it is also designed to provide practical knowledge and programming experience that relates to other areas such as operating systems and networks and allows all computer scientists to improve their skills in data management.

On-line Resources

• Syllabus

Student Performance

Of the 18 registered students who started the course, 14 received a C or above. The average GPA was 2.91. Two students took the course for graduate credit.

Comments

The COSC 404 course was very successful this semester (instructor rating: 5.0 out of 5). The labs were improved to add more programming and practical aspects to appeal to all students.

Strengths of the Course

• "The professor demonstrates a strong knowledge of the course material and is extremely effective at communicating the material to the class. Thank you for a great semester."
  


• "Very applied course, easy to understand how the learned content can be used."
  


• "Everything :-) esp. ability to ask questions and get answers! Even if they're tangential."
  

Weakness of the Course

• "Course content was very challenging. Some of the material wasn't explained very well -> especially the database/index calculations. The examples in the class didn't always correspond to the lab questions. First 2 labs were very challenging and not enough guidance on them. The answer key was also all over the place with formulas changing randomly. Could have used more guidance on the project."
  


• "The labs are too large IMO. If possible I would like smaller labs with more programming. The programming is complex, but not more than 1 week's worth. Weekly labs would be great."
  

Most Enjoyable Part of the Course

• "Everything, don't change a thing! This course is awesome!"
  


• "The labs teach a lot."