Aspects of teaching the basics of relational databases

Abstract

The article views some general principles of teaching the basics of relational databases. The author emphasizes the importance of linking the database design process with the requirements for the information system of which the database being designed is an integral part. The author discusses the issues of teaching some sections of relational analysis in particular the topic of “Normal forms”. The author notes that in order to fully understand the requirements of normal forms, it is necessary to turn to the analysis of the subject area, and not be limited only to formal consideration. The article also stresses some aspects of strong and weak entities in the entity-relationship model. Some approaches are being analyzed that make it possible to bring the study of relational databases as close as possible to practical application in the development of information systems. The author describes only some important aspects of studying relational databases.