SimpleDB: a simple java-based multiuser syst for teaching database internals

ABSTRACT

In this paper we examine the probl of how to give hands-on assignments in a database syst internals course. We argue that current approaches are inadequate, either because they are not sufficiently comprehensive or because they require using software that has a steep learning curve. We then describe SimpleDB, which is software written expressly for such a course. SimpleDB is a database syst in the spirit of Minibase. Unlike Minibase, however, it supports multiple users and transactions via JDBC, and its code is easy to read and modify. We then describe a course that we teach using SimpleDB, and discuss the educational benefits resulting from it.

REFERENCES

• 1: Anastassia Ailamaki , Joseph M. Hellerstein, Exposing undergraduate students to database system internals, ACM SIGMOD Record, v.32 n.3, p.18-20, September 2003 [doi>10.1145/945721.945725]
• 2: Raghu Ramakrishnan , Johannes Gehrke, Database Management Systems, McGraw-Hill Science/Engineering/Math, 2002
• 3: Garret Swart, MinSQL: a simple componentized database for the classroom, Proceedings of the 2nd international conference on Principles and practice of programming in Java, June 16-18, 2003, Kilkenny City, Ireland

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.2 DATABASE MANAGEMENT
      H.2.4 Systems
          Subjects: Relational databases

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.2 DATABASE MANAGEMENT
      H.2.4 Systems
          Subjects: Query processing

General Terms:
Algorithms, Design, Languages

Keywords:
database internals, minibase, pedagogical database software