Is the Oracle NoSQL database push getting serious? Before you answer consider this: Oracle (ORCL) will host a dozen NoSQL database educational sessions at OpenWorld 2013 this week in San Francisco. Here’s why.

Admittedly, most of OpenWorld will focus on Oracle’s major strategies — Engineered Systems, Cloud Computing, Social, Big Data and Fusion. But Oracle will also spend considerable time discussing its own NoSQL database. 

Much in the way that relational database companies popped up throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, NoSQL adoption has accelerated in recent years as customers pursue new ways to manage Big Data applications. Forrester Research predicts the NoSQL market will grow from $200 million in 2013 to $1 billion in 2017.

The twist: Numerous open source software companies produce NoSQL databases. Companies like DataStax and MongoDB are now building NoSQL channel partner programs. 

Instead of dismissing NoSQL, Oracle is moving into the market. At OpenWorld, e-dba Ltd. Technical Director James Anthony and Oracle Director of Product Management David Segleau will discuss Oracle NoSQL Database use scenarios and product direction during a general session on Sept. 23. Anthony and Segleau will touch on Master Data Management, Big Data and Business Analytics — among other areas.

But just how much marketing and partner effort will Oracle put behind NoSQL? The VAR Guy will be watching.