In this course we study foundations of information systems in detail. These fundamental aspects will be organized around the notion of model transformation, in particular transformation of information models:
- Basic information language with a suitable representation mechanism.
- Complexity of the representation mechanism.
- Wellformedness conditions for representations, with a parameterized generation algorithm.
- Correctness proof of generation algorithms.
- Rule-based population transformation and operation transformation.
- Distinction between generation operators and mutation operators.
Examples of transformations are the following. Data format may change when it is transferred between systems, including changes in data structure, data model, data schema, data types. Interpretation of data may vary when it is passed on from one person to another. Changes in interpretation belong to data semantics rather than data structure. Level of detail may change when exchanging data between departments or organizations, for example going from co-workers to managers or from local authorities to central government. Systems development phase of data models may vary, for example when implementation-independent models are mapped to implementation-oriented models. |
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We will specify the syntax and semantics of concrete model transformations. This will lead us to a framework for reasoning about transformations, in which different design strategies can be considered, for example quality-driven design strategies. Our study of foundations has a theoretical nature, but practical cases will also be considered.
Instructional modes
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| It would be good if you have some experience with information models, for example the relational model or the entity-relationship model (or a similar model). Furthermore, it would be good if you can handle basic mathematical definitions. |
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During the semester, the students will do a project, in which they apply and evaluate the theory discussed in the lectures. The project must result in a project report. The project report also includes a proposal for the improvement or extension of the theory. The final grade for this course is determined on the basis of the project report.
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