Abstract:

This paper examines the use of NoSQL (Not Only SQL) databases in education, analysing their advantages, challenges and potential directions for future research. The rapid digital transformation of educational environments, along with the exponential growth of educational data generated through learning management systems, e-learning platforms, mobile applications and sensor-based technologies, has increased the need for scalable and flexible data management solutions. Traditional relational database systems are increasingly challenged in efficiently processing heterogeneous, semi-structured, and unstructured data, particularly in contexts requiring real-time analytics and personalised learning support. NoSQL databases, characterized by their high scalability, performance efficiency, and support for diverse data models such as document, graph, key-value and column-oriented structures, enable more efficient information processing in modern educational systems.

To explore current scientific knowledge in this domain, a systematic literature review was conducted using two major academic databases, Scopus and Google Scholar. The review focused on peer-reviewed journal articles and conference proceedings published in English between 2020 and 2025 to capture recent technological advances and research trends. The initial search across the two databases identified a total of 236 publications. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria and removing duplicates and irrelevant studies, a total of 30 relevant scientific papers were selected for detailed analysis. These studies were further classified into four thematic areas: predictive analytics in education, interactive systems and methods for learning NoSQL databases, security and protection of NoSQL databases in educational environments and other innovative approaches to the integration of NoSQL databases and digital systems in education.

The analysis showed that the applying these technologies improves predictive analytics for student performance, enables early identification of at-risk learners, and personalises educational pathways through real-time data processing and large-scale analytics. Furthermore, numerous studies demonstrate the effectiveness of interactive learning platforms, gamification strategies and hybrid curricula designed to support the teaching of NoSQL concepts in higher education. From a security perspective, studies highlight critical vulnerabilities related to NoSQL injection attacks, access control, and data confidentiality, emphasising the need for robust encryption mechanisms, authentication protocols, and continuous security monitoring. The results emphasize the significant potential of NoSQL solutions for improving the educational data management and adapting curricula, despite challenges related to security vulnerabilities, the lack of standardized teaching materials and limited exploration of specific types of non-relational databases. The paper provides a foundation for the development of innovative educational systems and guides future research toward the integration of advanced analytical techniques and security protocols.

Keywords:

NoSQL, non-relational databases, education, educational data, educational analytics, student performance, learning analytics.