Abstract: In this paper, we describe how database instructors can teach Relational Algebra and Structured Query Language together through programming. Students write query programs consisting of sequences of Relational Algebra operations vs. Structured Query Language SELECT statements. The query programs can then be run interactively, allowing students to compare the results of Relational Algebra and equivalent Structured Query Language commands. In this way, students better under-stand both Relational Algebra and Structured Query Language—by writing code and watching it run.

Keywords: Database, query, relational algebra, SQL, structured query language

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Recommended Citation: McMaster, K., Sambasivam, S., Hadfield, S., Wolthuis, S. (2013). Relational Algebra and SQL: Better Together. Information Systems Education Journal, 11(1) pp 4-13. http://isedj.org/2013-11/ ISSN: 1545-679X. (A preliminary version appears in The Proceedings of ISECON 2012)