Database Design and Entity-Relationship Modeling

What this page covers

The resources follow the usual path of a database design course. They start with data models and entity-relationship diagrams, move on to extended models with subtypes and supertypes, then cover normalisation, and finish with turning a design into a relational schema or SQL.

Where to start

Begin with the quiz Chapter 2 (True/False), which asks what a data model is and what an implementation-ready model needs. Next, try Chapter 4 (Multiple Choice CIS 3365), which tests how an ERD shows the database as the end user sees it, and notation questions about the Chen style. Then CHAPTER 9: DATABASE DESIGN looks at systems analysis and the wider process of database development.

Extended models and normalisation

For subtypes and supertypes, use Chapter 5 (True/False) and Chapter 5 Multiple Choice. They cover common and unique characteristics and the extended entity relationship model. The flashcard deck CIS 3050 Database Analysis and Design Exam 1 adds terms such as attribute inheritance, total and partial specialisation, and the disjoint and overlap rules.

For normalisation, the NORMALISATION mind map sets out 1NF, 2NF and 3NF, with advantages and disadvantages. Follow it with Chapter 6 (True/False), which checks that normalisation works through a series of normal forms. The notes Data Normalisation Basics and How to normalise logical data models give a slower walk-through.

Using quizzes and maps together

1. Read a mind map first to see the whole shape of a topic.
2. Take the matching quiz without looking back.
3. Note the questions you missed and return to the map for those branches.
4. Turn tricky terms into flashcards and test yourself again.

Teachers can set a quiz as a quick check, or use the flowcharts, such as Hospital Relationship Entity Diagram, as worked examples.

Where it sits

This unit belongs to the Relational Model and Database Design strand of Databases and data science. Open one resource that matches what you are studying this week, then make your own flashcards from what you find hard.