SQL scrolls - A reusable and extensible DGBL experiment

Abstract

The teaching of databases and SQL is an active research area. We contribute by presenting a reusable and extensible SQL teaching experiment which uses a game and fits the paradigm of digital game based learning (DGBL). Although DGBL is hampered partly by the difficulty of obtaining statistically significant empirical results, the research shows that it may be an effective learning method and that it is in demand. We investigate the acceptance and effectiveness of an SQL learning game and focus on two areas: student reaction to games as a vehicle for teaching, and educational effectiveness. We designed a game prototype and administered a pre-test, post-test and an acceptance survey, with seven part-time and sixteen full-time students. A statistical analysis of effect sizes revealed a moderate intervention effect for the game group (d= -0.562) and a small one for the traditional group (d= -0.234). The acceptance survey means were between 4.43 and 4.70 out of 5, which shows that the game is highly acceptable. Our experiment demonstrated positive student attitudes towards DGBL in SQL teaching and showed the game to be as effective as exercises done using a workbench. We further observed interesting differences in teaching using a game and a "natural" workbench environment and had excellent course feedback. We have released the game as open source in the hope that other researchers will replicate or contradict our findings or simply use it in teaching. We close with an outline of ongoing research.