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ZooSQL: Interactive Serious Game to Strengthen SQL and Relational Algebra Skills for University Students

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingPaper (Conference contribution)peer-review

Abstract

The learning of databases and query languages such as SQL is fundamental for computer science students; however, their abstract and technical nature represents a frequent challenge. Many face difficulties in understanding key concepts such as Relational Algebra, DML, DQL, and PL/SQL. Therefore, in this research we propose ZooSQL, an interactive serious game designed to strengthen these skills through progressive challenges and immediate feedback. The evaluation of the impact of the ZooSQL game was carried out in two stages. In the first stage, we evaluated the user experience with the MEEGA+ model, analyzing key dimensions such as motivation, satisfaction, efficiency, effectiveness, perceived usefulness, and game accessibility. In the second stage, knowledge questionnaires were administered in pre- and post-use phases to evaluate the game’s effect on learning. Data were analyzed using the Student’s t-test and the Wilcoxon test, both of which revealed significant post-use improvements. On average, participants achieved 3.35 additional correct answers, corresponding to a 13.96% overall increase across all database-related topics assessed.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2025 IEEE CHILEAN Conference on Electrical, Electronics Engineering, Information and Communication Technologies, CHILECON 2025
EditorsGaston Lefranc, Claudio Cubillos
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
ISBN (Electronic)9798350357363
DOIs
StatePublished - 2025
Event2025 IEEE CHILEAN Conference on Electrical, Electronics Engineering, Information and Communication Technologies, CHILECON 2025 - Valparaiso, Chile
Duration: 28 Oct 202530 Oct 2025

Publication series

NameProceedings - IEEE CHILEAN Conference on Electrical, Electronics Engineering, Information and Communication Technologies, ChileCon
ISSN (Print)2832-1529
ISSN (Electronic)2832-1537

Conference

Conference2025 IEEE CHILEAN Conference on Electrical, Electronics Engineering, Information and Communication Technologies, CHILECON 2025
Country/TerritoryChile
CityValparaiso
Period28/10/2530/10/25

Keywords

  • Educational Technology
  • Gamification
  • PL/SQL
  • Relational Algebra
  • Serious games
  • SQL Learning

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