SQL (Structured Query Language) is one of the essential topics in foundation databases courses in higher education. Due to its apparent simple syntax, learning to use the full power of SQL can be a very difficult activity. In this paper, we introduce SQLator, which is a web-based interactive tool for learning SQL. SQLator's key function is the evaluate function, which allows a user to evaluate the correctness of his/her query formulation. The evaluate engine is based on complex heuristic algorithms. The tool also provides instructors the facility to create and populate database schemas with an associated pool of SQL queries. Currently it hosts two databases with a query pool of 300+ across the two databases. The pool is divided into 3 categories according to query complexity. The SQLator user can perform unlimited executions and evaluations on query formulations and/or view the solutions. The SQLator evaluate function has a high rate of success in evaluating the user's statement as correct (or incorrect) corresponding to the question. We will present in this paper, the basic architecture and functions of SQLator. We will further discuss the value of SQLator as an educational technology and report on educational outcomes based on studies conducted at the School of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, The University of Queensland.
Abstract.A major reason for the introduction and subsequent success of Business Process Management (BPM) and related tools is their ability to provide a clear separation between process, application and data logic. However, in spite of the abstraction value that BPM provides, a seamless flow between the technology layers has not been fully realized in mainstream enterprise software. The result of this disconnect is disparity (and even conflict) in enforcing various rules and constraints. In this paper, we address the problem of disconnect between the data relevant constraints defined within business process models and data dependency constraints defined in the data layer. We propose a business process (model) driven approach wherein such constraints can be modelled at the process level, and enforced at the data level through an (semi) automated translation into DBMS native procedures. The simultaneous specification ensures consistency of the business semantics across the process and data layers.
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