Database Training Resources
1. Coursera/Stanford “Introduction to Databases”
Introduction to Databases from Stanford University was one of the first Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) offered by Coursera in 2011, and has remained consistently popular. The course covers database design and the use of database management systems for applications. The course begins with the fundamental theory of database design, including the relational model and SQL. It moves on to cover contemporary issues in database management including JSON and NoSQL systems. The course uses PostgreSQL, SQLite, and MySQL. The course is comprised of video lectures, assignments, and exams. Discussion forums and the possibility of local meet-ups support learning.
Keywords: MOOCs, Stanford, database, SQL, NoSQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, and MySQL
Audience: beginner – intermediate database users
2. Coursera/University of Washington “Introduction to Data Science”
This MOOC is called “Introduction to Data Science” but the first of its two major units is devoted to databases. This includes an introduction to MapReduce, and Hadoop, as well as an SQL programming assignment. The course is comprised of the same materials as “Introduction to Databases” above, and has the same support system. As with “Introduction to Databases”, the added benefit of completing “Introduction to Data Science”, over and above the learning, is the opportunity to earn a formal certificate of recognition of the knowledge acquired, which may be useful to those hoping to apply their knowledge of databases professionally.
Keywords: MOOC, University of Washington, video lectures, assignments, exams, peer-support
Audience: beginner-intermediate database users