The relational algebra toolkit: A user-friendly approach to presenting and processing relational algebra queries on the web

Authors

Jeremy J. Miller, University of Texas-Pan American

Date of Award

12-2013

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Computer Science

First Advisor

Dr. Artem Chebotko

Second Advisor

Dr. Christine Reilly

Third Advisor

Dr. Wendy Lawrence-Fowler

Abstract

Relational algebra is the mathematical basis of tools to express and optimize queries on relational data. However, there exists no convenient way to directly use, express, store, render, visualize, and execute relational algebra over the Web. Educators and practitioners are limited to creating relational algebra expressions using TeX or equation editors which cannot execute them. This work presents a solution to this issue: the Relational Algebra Toolkit (RAT). Relational data and queries are represented using purpose-built XML vocabularies, to be both machine-processable and serializable. Encoded relational algebra expressions can be rendered as parenthetical expressions and as syntax trees, translated to SQL, reordered, and executed on encoded data in a JavaScript-enabled Web browser. These services are invoked as prescribed by the user, and the results are inserted into a Web page. RAT has been used by a number of universities internationally in undergraduate and graduate database courses, with favorable student feedback.

Comments

Copyright 2013 Jeremy J. Miller. All Rights Reserved.

https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/relational-algebra-toolkit-user-friendly-approach/docview/1501926192/se-2

Granting Institution

University of Texas-Pan American