Database System

Data basically can be anything of significance or of irrelevance that is stored electronically. A database is a collection of persistent data that is used by the application system or the operating system. The electronic filing cabinet where data is stored is called a database.
The container for collection of computerized data files can also be defined as database. The computerized record-keeping system of data and database is known as a database system. The database system generally constitutes of adding new files to the database, inserting data into existing files and also retrieving, deleting changing data of the existing files from database.

Database system provides many benefits. One of the most important benefits of database system is data independence. Database system changes the way data is physically stored and accessed. Database system generally run and expressed in a language called SQL [Structure Query Language]. SQL is a simple structured language for properly managing database system. SQL language enables database system to add new files to database. At the same time SQL also empowers database system to insert data, remove, delete, retrieve and  change the already existent files from database.

Database system is a very important system like the operating system and is a necessity for smooth running of a application. Consequently database systems are available on machines that range all the way from the smallest handheld device or personal computers to large mainframes. The use of database system is even more important in Internet where data is stored and shared in a large scale.     

Academic assessment (after week 5)

I really have enjoyed my time here in the University so far. Everyday has been exciting and the college environment has been a boost for me and my study.

Academically speaking, the course of all the module has been running smoothly. The basic and introductory parts of all the modules have almost ended and the advance and the hard parts have been introduced.
Several tests have been conducted to evaluate the academic progress. Most importantly the test of Logic module and Problem Solving Module has been conducted which will carry 25% and 30% of the final marks respectively.

The course work of the Study Skills module has been presented and according to my understanding it requires a group of my choosing to present a PowerPoint presentation in the final week.

The first course work of Programming module has also been presented which requires to be submitted by end of the 7th week. It basically includes a project regarding a Java program for car rental system.
It basically sums up my time here at the London Met thus far. I have really enjoyed my time and am looking forward to my future. Despite my early doubts I am very happy that I chose to study here rather than any where else.  

Referencing

While preparing any literary material on any topic information can be taken to improve the content of that particular topic. It is important to address this source of information properly. The process of addressing the source of information is called referencing. Referencing is a very important step while preparing a material. Any information taken from other source other than oneself should be referenced properly to acknowledge others peoples’ work. In a project prepared, any information taken should be properly referenced to validate the information.

Referencing of a material/content can be done in many different processes. One of the most effective ways of referencing information is via the ‘Harvard System’ (also known as name and date system).

In this system initially the information used in the project is cited inside quotation marks and then just beside the quoted remarks ‘Surname of the author along with his/hers initials’ and ‘date of the publication of source’ is presented. The author and date then becomes the part of project itself.

Some examples:

     ·       ’protein has been one of the most basic source of child nourishment in eastern Europe’ Alferdario B. (2003) Healthy eating: a whole diet approach.         

     ·       ‘To every action there is equal and opposite reaction’ Newton I.

(1648)  Newton’s third law.

 ·       ‘Strawberries contains more vitamin C than oranges’

British Nutrition Foundation (2003) Healthy eating: a whole diet approach [online] London: British Nutrition Foundation. Available from: http://www.nutrition.org.uk/home.asp?siteId=43&sectionId=325&subSectionId=320&parentSection=299&which=1 [Accessed 11^th August 2005].

Referencing is a very important step as it provides credit to the author and the research conducted to gather and collect the information. It is a way of showing respect to others information and using it at the same time for personal benefit.

Mind Mapping

Mind mapping is a simple way to make mind more efficient. It can be used as a tool or used as a way to tackle problems such that the solution becomes much easier. It helps our mind to memorize a certain pattern. Mind mapping simply helps one to be reminded a certain algorithmic way. To solve a problem the first step is to identify the problem and then map the way to solving it. Mind mapping is an algorithm to solve the problem as it creates a pattern which is easy to remember. Mind mapping is a guide map to effective solution. It helps to reason with the problem in hand and also helps to remember the algorithmic solution.

The above is a simple mind map which might come handy to help to remember or in other words memorize what modules are taught in the course of computing in the first semester of London met. It helps to identify what are the objectives of each of the modules.