INLS 723 Database Systems II, Fall 2006
INLS 723
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Current Topics Assignment

Introduction

In this assignment, you will research a current topic in the area of databases, create a report in the form of a web page, and give a brief (15 minute) presentation in class on the topic. The goals of this assignment are to: 1) give you experience quickly learning about and presenting a new or emerging topic related to databases, and 2) learn about new technologies, applications, and issues related to databases. As an information scientist, you may often be called upon to do this type of quick assessment, learning, and reporting of new topics. This is an individual assignment, meaning that you will work on your own to complete the assignment.

Choosing a topic

You may choose your own topic, but feel free to email the instructor or class discussion list if you would like to get feedback about your topic before starting. Some appropriate topics include: emerging database technologies, application interfaces, database standards, database privacy, database security, social and ethical issues, XML/XSLT/RDF, digital libraries, data warehousing, interfaces to databases, personal databases, OAI, and multimedia databases. There are many other interesting topics - feel free to browse the web, and current database literature for other ideas.

Research your topic

Be sure to use and reference a variety of reputable sources to research your topic. Although your topic may vary, the following is a list of items you should address in your research:
  • Overview of the topic and issues.
  • Why is this topic important?
  • What are the main issues?
  • Who (people, companies, organizations) are involved and how?
  • Where is the topic going (i.e. what is on the horizon)?

Create a web page report

To help disseminate your research, prepare a report in the form of an HTML web page. You may include figures, diagrams, and pictures, but since these will be posted on the web, make sure you have the appropriate copyright permissions. You may wish to look at the reports from prior offerings of INLS 258 for report formatting ideas:
INLS 258 Fall 2005 Presentations

Present your topic to the class

You also will give a brief presentation of your research in class on one of the following dates: Sept 18, Sept 25, Oct 2, Oct 9. Your presentation should last no more than 15 minutes. The time limit will be strictly enforced and part of your grade will depend on your presentation style and completing your presentation in the time allotted. Keep in mind that in 15 minutes, you will only be able to give an overview of the topic - people can refer to your web page report for more detailed information. You may use Powerpoint slides as part of your presentation. If so, please send them to the instructor by 9:00am the day you are scheduled to present.