Teaching Data Models with TriQL

Abstract

With the abundance of database systems implementing various data models, such as the relational, graph, and document-oriented models, learners often find it challenging to understand the trade-offs between different data models and to decide which database system they should learn and why. Additionally, most introductory database courses focus on the predominant relational model for teaching database design and programming, and do not discuss other emerging databases. While the relational database systems still play a vital role in modern data systems, especially with the emergence of NewSQL, it is crucial to introduce students to databases implementing other data models. In this paper, we introduce TriQL, a system for helping novices learn the schema and query languages of three major database systems, including MySQL (a relational database), Neo4J (a graph database), and MongoDB (a document-oriented database). TriQL offers learners a graphical user interface to design and execute a query against a generic database schema without requiring them to have any database programming experience. TriQL follows an interactive approach to learning new database models, supporting a dynamic and agile learning environment that can be easily integrated into database labs and homework assignments.