Course Syllabus
Database Management Systems
Fall, 1999-2000

Course Information

Instructor:Rich Maclin
Email:rmaclin
Office:319 Heller Hall
Phone:726-8256
Office Hours:14:00-15:30 Tuesday and Thursday, 14:00-15:00 Wednesday, and by appointment
Text:Ramakrishnan, Database Management Systems, McGraw-Hill

Course Coverage

This course will present an introduction to database management systems. We will attempt to cover the first 18 chapters of the textbook though certain material will be skipped. The focus of the course will be on aspects of implementing and organizing databases rather than on querying databases, though this issue will also be covered. The course will include several coding projects which will be based on a simple database system that was developed with the textbook. More information regarding this system will be provided as the semester goes on.

Examinations and Grades

ItemPointsDate and Time
Midterm Exam 1 75 points October 19 (Tuesday), 16:00-17:40
Midterm Exam 2 75 points November 30 (Tuesday), 16:00-17:40
Final Exam 150 points December 21 (Tuesday), 14:00-15:55
Programming/Homework Assignments 300 points TBA
Total 600 points Grade based on total points

Policies

Course Material

Copies of the overheads used in class will be made available in the library (hopefully before class).

Missed Classes

You are responsible for what goes on in class, including lecture material, handouts, and turning in assignments. If you are unable to attend class it is your responsibility to obtain copies of class notes and any materials distributed in class. You may turn in copies of assignments early or have other members of the class turn in an assignment for you.

Assignments

All assignments will be collected at the beginning of class on the due date. Late assignments will be penalized 20% of the grade for each working day the assignment is late.

Cheating

Programming assignments must be your own work. You may discuss general ideas with other students, but should not discuss actual code with others. If you are having problems with an assignment, please come and see me or send me email.

Equal Opportunity

As instructor I shall make every attempt to treat all students equally, without regard to race, religion, color, sex, handicap, age, veteran status, or sexual orientation. I encourage you to talk to me about your concerns of equal opportunity in the classroom. To inquire further about the University's policy on equal opportunity, contact the Office of Equal Opportunity (6827), 255 DAdB.

Students With Disabilities

If you have any disability (either permanent or temporary) that might affect your ability to perform in this class, please inform me at the start of the quarter. I may adapt methods, materials, or testing so that you can participate equitably. To learn about the services that UMD provides to students with disabilities, contact the Access Center (8727), 104 Cina Hall, or the Office of Equal Opportunity (6827), 255 DAdB.