1) Critically discuss and evaluate NoSQL and SQL with respect to different domains of use.
Knowledge and Understanding

2) Research, analyse and critically evaluate best practices in NoSQL solutions through practical work Learning, Analysis, Problem Solving, Reflection

3) Develop analytical approaches to problem solving, presenting logical and coherent written arguments to set database problems.
Problem Solving, Communication, Application

Assignment 1:
A Presentation: 15 minutes which discusses the range of issues comparing NoSQL and SQL. Learning Outcomes 1 and 2.

Assignment 2:
A 2000 word Report including a proof of concept: is more an executive report, emulating a real case scenario where you are in a work place and are given a small project that would require a NOSQL solution and you are required to write a report to explain the problem, its characteristics and how it has been approached. Learning Outcomes 1 to 3.

The content of this module includes:
- Design of NoSQL databases with emphasis on document oriented datastores
- Comparison of NoSQL and relational design
- Understanding of the design challenge of unstructured data
- Data Management including schema management
- Exploring what is meant by NoSQL and how this relates to and contrasts with relational database technologies
- NoSQL and relational use cases
- An examination of what is meant by corporate data governance; looking at organisational data strategies and the development of integrated data management solutions.

This module will enable students to apply their knowledge in small close-to-real world projects emulating real work scenarios which require using domain-specific techniques for applying NOSQL to different domains. The module will also focus on which type of solutions that NOSQL would be a better solution over using traditional SQL.

The module is delivered as a practical session a week. This will consist of workshops that will cover the content described above. The content will be flexible but serves the anticipated outcomes. Flexibility in terms of the case studies is essential to address the student’s specific needs and also to keep up with the rapidly evolving nature of the subject domain. Therefore, these workshops will be used:

a. To discuss case studies
b. To test and experiment with some use cases and small examples, allowing for peer learning and hands-on practice.
c. To work on projects
d. To deliver presentations for the assessment.

The VLE will be used for discussing the case studies outside classes and provide the students with relevant material to support their learning.

These are indicative only. Texts are updated on an annual basis and when you start to study this module, you will be referred to an online reading list, currently provided through Keylinks. You are advised not to buy any textbooks for this module without checking the online reading list.

Connelly and Begg (2016), Database systems, Addison-Wesley,2016. ISBN 9780132943260
White papers from Oracle.com and Microsoft.com
Cormen et al, (2014), Introduction to Algorithms, MIT Press, ISBN N/A Ebook in University Library
Hieineman et al, (2016), Algorithms in a nutshell, O’Reilly, ISBN 1491948922

NoSQL Datastores
Relational datastores

None