Entity relationship models as a tool for data analysis and design

ABSTRACT

Many tools have been developed to aid in the systems analysis and design process. These same tools are used in teaching to help students better understand the process. This paper will discuss ways in which one tool, Entity Relationship (ER) models, can be used in teaching data analysis and design. The role of ER models in database design will be reviewed. ER models will be considered as a framework for also dealing with file design. An example of an ER model will be given with a description of how it might be used in discussing file design issues with students.

REFERENCES

• Chen 76: Peter Pin-Shan Chen, The entity-relationship model—toward a unified view of data, ACM Transactions on Database Systems (TODS), v.1 n.1, p.9-36, March 1976 [doi>10.1145/320434.320440]
• Chen 77: Chen, P. P. T_b_e__E~)~t.ik.~-- P_~SD, Q. E. D. Monograph Series, No. 6, Q.E.D. Information Sciences, Inc., Wellesley, Mass. (1977).
• Chen 85: Chen, P. P. "Database Design Based on Entity and Relationship", a chapter in principles of database design, Volume I, S. Bing Yao editor, Prentice-Hall, Inc.,Englewood Cliffs, N. J. (1985).
• Chrisman 82: C. Chrisman, Teaching Database design through an Entity-Relationship approach, ACM SIGCSE Bulletin, v.14 n.1, p.4-7, February 1982
• Hanson 82: Hanson, Owen p~_isD_o~_ Computer Data Files, Computer Science Press, Rockville, MD (1982).
• Howe 83: Howe, D.R. D~t_a__AD_al~_is_~9~ Data Base Design, Edward Arnold, Baltimore, MD (1983).

INDEX TERMS

Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.2 DATABASE MANAGEMENT
      H.2.1 Logical Design
          Subjects: Data models
  H.3 INFORMATION STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL
      H.3.2 Information Storage
          Subjects: File organization

  K. Computing Milieux
  K.3 COMPUTERS AND EDUCATION
      K.3.2 Computer and Information Science Education
          Subjects: Information systems education

General Terms:
Design, Human Factors