An educational software for teaching database normalization

Abstract

Database normalization is a key process for designing databases. However, it is one of the most complex topics for students in IT undergraduate programs. This work proposes a new software tool that supports students in the process of normalization. This learning tool allows the students to see step by step how to carry out each normal form up to the 3NF. This tool is based on data analysis of the input table as it is explained in class, and not on analyzing the scheme or initial dependencies defined by business rules. Thus, novel algorithms were developed to process the input table (user‐defined) as well as the tables created during the normalization process. The software was tested in two Database courses, obtaining an important increase in the performance of students who used the tool.

Use of Storage Technologies to select Knowledge Management Tools and Strategies for M-SMEs

“…Normalization is a process that takes an existing database design that can have anomalies, errors o redundancies, and improves it by decomposing relations, based on a known set of dependencies. When the normalization is not applied, database systems are usually inefficient and inaccurate [15].…”

Integration Construction of Teaching Resource Library for Art and Design Majors under Interactivity Orientation

“…Sharing the resources can promote the optimal allocation of educational resources, improve the teaching effect and the competitiveness of students' employment, and make the students more adaptable to the development needs of the current industry and enterprises, which is in line with the current development trend of the information age. Literature [11] developed a new software tool to standardize students' database design and achieved the expected purpose in the experimental test, effectively improving the degree of students' database standardization. Literature [12] examined the current status of teaching resource data construction in higher education institutions and discussed methods to construct and optimize teaching resource databases in order to strengthen the functionality of teaching resource databases.…”