A methodology for teaching database design based on a four-component instructional design model

Abstract

Based on the analysis of relevant literature, the article highlights the difficulties of teaching a relational database course in higher educational institutions. Such problems are mainly associated with the lack of simple and at the same time formalized methods to teach the basics of this academic discipline. The research illustrates the importance of the correct choice of the instructional design model while developing the course. The article also provides a comparative analysis of the existing instructional design models performed with regard to their application to the development of a database course. The study has revealed the advantages of choosing a four- component model of instructional design (4C/ID). Such a model served as the basis for developing a methodology for teaching database design. On the one hand, this methodology makes it possible to avoid deep immersion in the mathematical foundations of the discipline. On the other hand, it is strictly formalized and fully consistent with these foundations. Formalization has been achieved through a cognitive strategy and cognitive rules that are clearly expressed in natural language. The cognitive strategy and rules are universal for database design in any subject area. The fact that students quickly go on to solve real practical problems in professional activity proves the effectiveness of the proposed methodology.