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Entity Relationship Diagrams

Ratings

Overall Rating:
Content Quality:
Effectiveness:
Ease of Use:

Reviewed:	Apr 25, 2005 by Business Editorial Board
Overview:	Data models are tools used in analysis to describe the data requirements and assumptions in the system from a top-down perspective. They also set the stage for the design of databases later on in the SDLC. This web site provides examples and explanation of ERD for college students.
Learning Goals:	The major learning goal is to show how to use a graphical approach to process management, as well as to draw and read ERDs.
Target Student Population:	Senior or graduate level business students.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:	Flow logic and basic computer concepts, database management system.
Type of Material:	Web site.
Recommended Uses:	This can best be used for process management and homework.
Technical Requirements:	None

Evaluation and Observation

Content Quality

Rating:

Strengths:	The diagram flow is clear. The web site explains steps to draw ERD with one demonstration.
Concerns:	No introduction. What is this all about?? It does not define basic terms, e.g., SDLC. ERD is more than entities and relationships. Over simplifying this concept may mislead students.

Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool

Rating:

Strengths:	Step by step approach.
Concerns:	Example diagram (which deals with movies) and the following text which deals with health care is inconsistent!! Not covering cardinality is the major concern of the web site. Without cardinality, students can hardly understand ERDs.

Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty

Rating:

Strengths:	Internet support resources. Diagrams showing the data models.
Concerns:	There are not enough examples and applications. The web site provides information no different than most textbooks. A web page can do better than static text.

Other Issues and Comments:

This site needs a context (introduction). Otherwise it is hard to follow. Also some testimonials would be helpful.

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