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An ILLuSTr ATIVe ex AMPLe: WhAT IS A STuden T?
Sometimes it appears that we are playing word games when we discuss the semantic complexities of
information modeling. For example, when we ask - 'What does it mean to be a student?' - practically
minded people often think that we are just engaging in so much philosophical double talk. The purpose
of this section is to show how this question is crucial to designing a database that will deliver accurate
information. First we will show how it is not at all obvious what we mean by the designation student.
And second we will follow with a discussion of the realist versus conceptualist assumptions in terms
of this example.
A degree program has 200 students that break down into the following categories: 70 are full time
students taking three classes; 20 of the full time students are on full scholarship; 30 are part time students
taking two classes; 20 are part time students taking one class; 10 students are on leave of absence taking
no classes; 40 students are doing internships taking no classes; 20 are alumni auditors getting continuing
education credits; 10 students are sitting in on classes with the permission of the instructor.
There are three courses offered each semester: a two credit course (five sections); a three credit course
(three sections); and a four credit course (two sections). The two-credit course has a two-hour lab that
is staffed by a teaching assistant or a doctoral student.
Fees are $500 per credit hour. Students on scholarships get a 50% discount. Alumni auditors pay
$100 per credit hour.
There are two full time faculty members teaching two sections each and five adjuncts teaching the
other sections. There is another full time faculty member who only teaches one class and administers
the program.
We have the following potential definitions of student:
1. A student is a person enrolled in the program
2. A student is a person attending classes
3. A student is s person paying tuition
4. A full time equivalent student is taking three classes and paying full tuition
We have the following potential definitions of class:
1. A class is a course
2. A class is a course offering
3. A class equivalent is twenty students taking three credits
We have the following potential definitions for a faculty member:
1. A faculty member is a full time member of the faculty
2. A faculty member is anyone who teaches a class
3. A faculty full time equivalent (FTE) is three covered classes
Now consider the following questions:
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