SQL and Alteryx: A mental model approach to teaching data analytic foundation skills
Academic Article
Overview
Overview
Abstract
SQL and relational databases are a traditional part of AIS classes and are frequently taught with established technology tools. With the onset of newer data analytics tools, educators are faced with the challenge of how to incorporate emerging technologies while still covering basic foundational concepts. In this paper, we position SQL as the mental model for learning the data preparation features of a popular analytics tool, Alteryx. We split the traditional SQL content from our course into four increments that increase in complexity. For each increment, we use a multi-step approach to first develop students’ mental model of the SQL SELECT statement and then apply the mental model to the new environment of Alteryx. For each increment, students solve the same set of problems in SQL and Alteryx, so that the understanding of SQL eases the transition to Alteryx and the practice in Alteryx reinforces the understanding of SQL. This approach shows promise in teaching foundation skills for data analytics while also building agility with respect to emerging technologies. For instructors, it also provides a relatively low-cost method to incorporate a data analytics tool into existing courses that teach relational database design and SQL queries.
