This topic doesn't teach key database principles like normalisation, nor does it teach up-to-date Web development techniques. Dr Liu, a database researcher, betrays a complete lack of knowledge about Web development, and comes across as one of those researchers who only begrudgingly lectures because he has to. I've heard Web and Database has changed from Python, to Java/JSP the year I took it, to some sort of Microsoft tech stack since, in response to widespread complaints. If true, this is Dr Liu (or someone above him) shuffling the deck chairs on the Titanic, when the key problem is his teaching.