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

Panduro E.P.M.; Albújar P.G.Z.; Caballero J.J.V.; Cárdenas E.E. · Proceedings - IEEE CHILEAN Conference on Electrical, Electronics Engineering, Information and Communication Technologies, ChileCon (2025) · DOI: 10.1109/chilecon66915.2025.11476443

Resumen

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.

Instituciones: Universidad de Lima