TESTER CLASS mother-load

(Professor Gemini dramatically clears their throat and straightens their lab coat)

Ahem... Let's begin!

Software Testing 101: Usability & Basic Functional

Professor: Gemini (your friendly and enthusiastic cyborg professor, passionate about software
quality and empowering testers)

Course Goal: To equip you with the fundamental knowledge and skills to perform effective
usability and basic functional testing, opening doors to exciting entry-level testing opportunities and
setting you on the path to becoming a skilled software detective!

Duration: Approximately 4-6 weeks (flexible based on your learning pace)

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Week 1: Foundations of Software Testing

(Class 1): The Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC)

(Professor Gemini strides confidently to the front of the class, their cybernetic eye gleaming with
excitement)

Welcome, future app testers, to our first class! Today, we'll embark on a journey to understand the
software development lifecycle, or SDLC, and how testing plays a crucial role in it.

(In-Class Lecture):

Imagine building a house. You wouldn't just start laying bricks, right? You'd have a plan, a
blueprint. Similarly, software development follows a structured process called the SDLC. It
typically involves phases like planning, design, development, testing, deployment, and
maintenance. Testing is interwoven throughout this lifecycle, ensuring quality at each stage.

(Whiteboard illustration):
Opens in a new window
hiretop.com
cyborg woman carefully examining a blueprint, with different phases of the SDLC labeled

Why is the SDLC Important?

The SDLC provides a framework for managing software projects, ensuring that they are completed
on time, within budget, and meet the needs of users. It also helps teams collaborate effectively and
produce high-quality software.

Key Phases of the SDLC:

Planning: This phase involves defining the scope of the project, gathering requirements, and
creating a project plan.
Design: In this phase, the software's architecture, user interface, and functionality are designed.
Development: This is where the actual coding takes place, and the software is built.1
Testing: This phase involves evaluating the software to identify defects and ensure it meets the
requirements.
Deployment: In this phase, the software is released to users.
Maintenance: This phase involves ongoing support, bug fixes, and updates to the software.
Testing's Role in the SDLC

Testing isn't just a single phase at the end of the SDLC. It's integrated throughout the entire process,
from early design reviews to final user acceptance testing. This ensures that quality is built into the
software from the start and that defects are identified and addressed as early as possible.

(Interactive Discussion):

Now, let's discuss some real-world examples. Can anyone share an experience where they
encountered a software bug or issue? How do you think that bug could have been prevented through
better testing?

(Professor Gemini facilitates a lively discussion, encouraging students to share their experiences
and insights)

Key Takeaways:

The SDLC is a structured process that guides software development projects.

Testing is an integral part of the SDLC, ensuring quality at each stage.
Understanding the SDLC helps testers collaborate effectively with developers and stakeholders.
(Homework):

Research and compare different SDLC models, such as Waterfall, Agile, and Spiral.
Choose a software application you use regularly and try to identify which phases of the SDLC were
involved in its development.
(References):

The Software Development Lifecycle: A Complete Guide by Steven Hansel

Agile Software Development by Alistair Cockburn

(Class 2): What is Software Testing? Why is it Important?

(Professor Gemini, with a mischievous grin, holds up a smartphone with a cracked screen)

Has anyone ever experienced something like this? A phone that crashes unexpectedly, an app that
freezes, a website that displays gibberish? These are all examples of software bugs, and they can be
incredibly frustrating, even costly.

(In-Class Lecture):

What is Software Testing?

Software testing is the process of evaluating a software application or system to identify defects or
bugs. It's about ensuring that the software meets its requirements, performs as expected, and
provides a positive user experience.

Why is it Important?
2
Software testing is crucial for several reasons:

Ensuring Quality: Testing helps ensure that the software is reliable, stable, and functions as
intended. This leads to a better user experience and increased customer satisfaction.
Preventing Costly Errors: Identifying and fixing bugs early in the development process is much
cheaper than fixing them after the software has been released.

Protecting Reputation: Software failures can damage a company's reputation and erode user trust.
Thorough testing helps prevent these negative outcomes.

Meeting Legal and Regulatory Requirements: In some industries, software testing is required to
comply with legal or regulatory standards.

(Interactive Activity):

Let's brainstorm some potential consequences of software failures in different industries. For
example, what could happen if there's a bug in a medical device, a financial trading system, or an
aircraft control system?

(Professor Gemini guides the class through a brainstorming session, encouraging students to think
critically and creatively)

Key Takeaways:

Software testing is essential for ensuring software quality, preventing errors, protecting reputation,
and meeting legal requirements.
The consequences of software failures can be significant, ranging from minor inconveniences to
major financial losses or even safety hazards.

(Homework):

Research and write a short essay on the ethical considerations of software testing.
Find and analyze a news article about a recent software failure and discuss the potential impact it
had on users and the company involved.
(References):

Software Testing and Quality Assurance: Theory and Practice by Kshirasagar Naik and Priyadarshi
Tripathy

Foundations of Software Testing by Dorothy Graham

(Class 3): Types of Testing

(Professor Gemini adjusts their cybernetic spectacles and begins)

In the previous class, we learned about the SDLC and the importance of software testing. Today,
we'll delve deeper into the different types of testing that are performed throughout the software
development lifecycle.

(In-Class Lecture):

Think of testing as a multifaceted approach. Just like a doctor uses different tools and techniques to
diagnose a patient, testers use various types of testing to uncover different kinds of issues. 3
Functional Testing:
This is the most common type of testing, focusing on verifying that the software functions as
expected according to the specified requirements. It involves checking things like:

Input/Output Testing: Testing with valid and invalid inputs to ensure the software handles them
correctly.

Boundary Value Analysis: Testing values at the boundaries of input ranges.

Equivalence Partitioning: Testing different sets of input data that are likely to produce the same
result.

Decision Table Testing: Testing different combinations of inputs and their corresponding outputs.

Non-Functional Testing:
This type of testing focuses on aspects of the software that are not directly related to its
functionality, such as:

Performance Testing: Evaluating the software's speed, responsiveness, and stability under different
workloads.

Usability Testing: (We'll explore this in more detail next week!) Assessing how user-friendly the
software is, focusing on factors like ease of use, learnability, and user satisfaction.

Security Testing: Identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers.

Reliability Testing: Evaluating the software's ability to perform consistently over time under
expected conditions.

Compatibility Testing: Ensuring the software works correctly on different platforms, browsers, and
devices.

Other Types of Testing:

Unit Testing: Testing individual components or modules of the software.
Integration Testing: Testing how different modules or components of the software interact with each
other.
System Testing: Testing the entire system as a whole to ensure it meets the overall requirements.
Acceptance Testing: Testing the software to ensure it meets the needs and expectations of the users.

(Interactive Discussion):

Let's discuss some examples of how these different types of testing might be applied to a specific
application, such as a mobile banking app. What types of functional tests would you perform? What
about non-functional tests like performance or security?

(Professor Gemini facilitates a lively discussion, encouraging student participation and critical
thinking)

Key Takeaways:

There are many different types of testing, each with its own specific focus and objectives.4
Understanding the different types of testing is essential for creating a comprehensive testing
strategy.
Effective testing requires a combination of different testing techniques to ensure thorough coverage.

(Homework):

Research and write a brief report on one specific type of testing (e.g., performance testing, security
testing) that interests you.
Find a case study of a software project that failed due to inadequate testing. Analyze the types of
testing that should have been performed to prevent the failure.

(References):

Software Testing: Principles and Practices by Ron Patton

Testing Computer Software by Cem Kaner, Jack Falk, Hung Nguyen

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(Class 4): Key Testing Terminology

(Professor Gemini, with a mischievous glint in their cybernetic eye, pulls out a deck of flashcards)

Today, we'll delve into the essential vocabulary of software testing. Just like any field, software
testing has its own lingo. Mastering this terminology will help you communicate effectively with
other testers, developers, and stakeholders.

(In-Class Lecture):

Bug/Defect: An error in the software that causes it to behave incorrectly.

Test Case: A set of steps to verify a specific function or feature of the software.

Test Suite: A collection of related test cases.

Test Plan: A document that outlines the testing strategy, objectives, scope, and resources.

Test Script: A set of automated test instructions.

Test Environment: The hardware and software environment in which the testing is performed.

Test Data: The input data used to execute test cases.

Defect Log: A record of all the bugs found during testing.

Severity: The impact of a bug on the software or the user.

Priority: The urgency with which a bug needs to be fixed.

(Interactive Game:**
5
To make this more fun, let's play a game! I'll show you a flashcard with a testing term, and you'll
have to define it or give an example. The first person to correctly answer gets a point!

(Professor Gemini leads a lively game of "Testing Terminology Flashcards," encouraging student
participation and friendly competition)

Key Takeaways:

Mastering testing terminology is crucial for effective communication and collaboration within the
software development team.
Understanding the meaning and implications of different terms will help you perform your testing
duties more effectively.

(Homework):

Create a glossary of key testing terms and their definitions.

Find and analyze a real-world bug report and identify the different terms used in the report.

(References):

Glossary of Software Engineering by IEEE

ISTQB Foundation Level Syllabus (Available on the ISTQB website)

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(Class 5): Setting Up a Testing Environment

(Professor Gemini, with a confident air, demonstrates setting up a virtual machine on their
computer)

In today's class, we'll focus on setting up your testing environment. This will involve installing
necessary software, configuring your workspace, and familiarizing yourself with the tools you'll be
using throughout the course.

(In-Class Lecture):

Essential Tools:

Text Editor/IDE: Choose a suitable text editor or integrated development environment (IDE) for
writing test cases and scripts. Popular choices include Notepad++, Sublime Text, VS Code, and
IntelliJ IDEA.
Bug Tracking System: Install and configure a bug tracking system like Bugzilla, MantisBT, or Jira.
Virtual Machines/Containers: Consider using virtual machines or containers to create isolated
testing environments.
Setting Up Your Workspace:

Organize your files and folders effectively to keep your testing projects organized.
Create a dedicated workspace for your testing activities.
Exploring Testing Tools:
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Experiment with different testing tools, such as automated testing frameworks, performance testing
tools, and security testing tools.
(Lab 5):

Install a text editor or IDE of your choice.

Install and configure a simple bug tracking system.
Experiment with creating a basic test environment using virtual machines or containers (if
applicable).

(Homework):

Research and compare different text editors or IDEs based on their features and user reviews.
Explore and experiment with different bug tracking systems to find one that suits your preferences.
(References):

Pay attention to ALL vendor documentation for the chosen text editor/IDE and bug tracking system.
Online tutorials and guides on setting up testing environments.

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(Class 6): Writing Your First Test Cases

(Professor Gemini, with a determined expression, pulls up a sample application on the screen)

Now that we have our testing environment set up, it's time to start writing our first test cases! Let's
break down the process and learn how to create effective test cases that cover different scenarios
and inputs.

(In-Class Lecture):

Components of a Test Case:

Test Case ID: A unique identifier for each test case.

Test Case Name: A concise and descriptive name that summarizes the test case.

Test Steps: A step-by-step procedure for executing the test.

Test Data: The input data used for the test.

Expected Result: The anticipated outcome of the test.

Actual Result: The actual outcome of the test.

Pass/Fail: Whether the test passed or failed.

Writing Effective Test Cases:

Use clear, concise, and unambiguous language.

Cover all possible scenarios and inputs.7
Focus on specific, measurable outcomes.
Use appropriate terminology and conventions.

(Interactive Exercise):

Let's work together to write a few test cases for a simple login form. What scenarios should we
consider? What inputs should we use? What are the expected outcomes?

(Professor Gemini guides the class through an interactive exercise, writing test cases for a sample
login form on the whiteboard)

Key Takeaways:

Writing effective test cases is a crucial skill for any software tester.
Well-written test cases ensure that testing is thorough, efficient, and effective.
Test cases should be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect changes in the software.

(Homework):

Write 5-10 test cases for a simple application of your choice (e.g., a calculator, a to-do list app).
Review and analyze existing test cases from open-source projects or online repositories.

(References):

The Art of Software Testing by Glenford J. Myers

Software Testing: A Practitioner's Guide by Cem Kaner, James Bach, and Bret Pettichord

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(Class 7): The Importance of Testing in the SDLC

(Professor Gemini, with a serious tone, addresses the class)

We've discussed the SDLC and the different types of testing, but let's take a moment to reiterate
why testing is so crucial throughout the software development lifecycle.

(In-Class Lecture):

Early Defect Detection: The earlier we find bugs, the cheaper and easier they are to fix.
Testing throughout the SDLC helps identify defects early on, saving time and resources in the long
run.

Quality Assurance: Testing ensures that the software meets the required quality standards and
provides a positive user experience. This leads to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Risk Mitigation: Thorough testing helps identify and mitigate potential risks, such as security
vulnerabilities or performance bottlenecks, before they can cause harm.

Continuous Improvement: Testing provides valuable feedback that can be used to improve the
software development process and prevent similar defects from occurring in the future.

(Group Discussion):8
Let's discuss some real-world examples of how testing has helped improve software quality or
prevent major issues. Can anyone share a story about a time when testing saved the day?

(Professor Gemini encourages students to share their experiences and insights, fostering a
collaborative learning environment)

Key Takeaways:

Testing is not just a single phase at the end of the SDLC, but an ongoing process that's integrated
throughout.
Early and frequent testing is crucial for identifying defects, ensuring quality, and mitigating risks.
Testing provides valuable feedback that can be used for continuous improvement.

(Homework):

Research and analyze a case study where a software project benefited significantly from thorough
testing.
Write a persuasive essay arguing for the importance of investing in software testing.

(References):

Software Testing: A Craftsman's Approach by Paul C. Jorgensen

Agile Testing Condensed: A Brief Introduction by Janet Gregory and Lisa Crispin
(Professor Gemini concludes Week 1 with a warm smile and a final thought)

As we wrap up this first week, remember that testing is not just about finding bugs; it's about
ensuring that software meets the needs of its users and provides a positive experience. Keep that in
mind as you continue your testing journey, and I'm confident you'll make a real difference in the
world of software quality!

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(Week 2: Usability Testing Principles)

(Professor Gemini, with a twinkle in their cybernetic eye, addresses the class)

Welcome back, testers! This week, we'll delve into the exciting realm of Usability Testing
Principles.

(In-Class Lecture):

Usability testing is all about ensuring that software is user-friendly, enjoyable, and effective. It's
about putting ourselves in the shoes of our users and understanding their needs and expectations.

User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI)

9
Before we dive into usability testing, let's clarify the difference between user experience (UX) and
user interface (UI).

UX is the overall experience a user has with a product or service. It encompasses everything from
the user's first impression to their long-term satisfaction. UI, on the other hand, is the specific
design of the interface that users interact with. It's the visual layout, the buttons, the menus, and all
the other elements that users see and interact with.

Think of it this way: UX is like the feeling you get when you dine at a restaurant, while UI is like
the menu, the cutlery, and the table setting. Both are important, but UX is the broader, more holistic
concept.

Principles of Good Usability

There are several key principles that contribute to good usability:

Learnability: How easy is it for users to learn how to use the software?

Efficiency: How quickly can users accomplish their tasks once they've learned how to use the
software?

Memorability: How easily can users remember how to use the software after a period of not using
it?

Errors: How many errors do users make, and how easily can they recover from those errors?

Satisfaction: How pleasant and enjoyable is it to use the software?

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(Week 2: Usability Testing Principles)

(Professor Gemini, with a twinkle in their cybernetic eye, addresses the class)

Welcome back, testers! This week, we'll delve into the exciting realm of Usability Testing
Principles.

(In-Class Lecture):

Usability testing is all about ensuring that software is user-friendly, enjoyable, and effective. It's
about putting ourselves in the shoes of our users and understanding their needs and expectations.

User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI)

Before we dive into usability testing, let's clarify the difference between user experience (UX) and
user interface (UI).

UX is the overall experience a user has with a product or service. It encompasses everything from
the user's first impression to their long-term satisfaction. It's about how the user feels when
interacting with the software – are they frustrated, confused, delighted ? 10
UI, on the other hand, is the specific design of the interface that users interact with. It's the visual
layout, the buttons, the menus, and all the other elements that users see and interact with.

Think of it this way: UX is like the feeling you get when you dine at a restaurant – the ambiance,
the service, the overall atmosphere. UI is like the menu, the cutlery, and the table setting. Both are
important, but UX is the broader, more holistic concept.

Principles of Good Usability

There are several key principles that contribute to good usability, often referred to as Nielsen's
Heuristics:

Learnability: How easy is it for users to learn how to use the software? Can they quickly grasp the
basic functionalities and navigate the interface?

Efficiency: How quickly can users accomplish their tasks once they've learned how to use the
software? Are they able to perform tasks efficiently and without unnecessary steps?

Memorability: How easily can users remember how to use the software after a period of not using
it? Are the interface and functionalities intuitive and easy to recall?

Errors: How many errors do users make, and how easily can they recover from those errors? Are
there clear error messages and helpful recovery mechanisms?

Satisfaction: How pleasant and enjoyable is it to use the software? Does it meet the user's needs and
expectations? Does it provide a positive and rewarding experience?

Usability Test Scenarios and Tasks

To test usability, we create realistic scenarios and tasks that mimic real-world usage. For example:

E-commerce Website: "Find a specific product on the website, add it to your cart, and proceed to
checkout."

Travel Booking App: "Book a flight and hotel for a trip to a specific destination."

Email Client: "Compose and send an email with attachments to a recipient."

Document Editing Software: "Edit a document, insert images, and share it with collaborators."

By observing how users perform these tasks, we can identify any usability issues and areas for
improvement.

Formulating Questions

Asking the right questions is crucial for gathering valuable feedback during usability testing. We'll
practice formulating open-ended questions that encourage users to share their thoughts and
experiences. For example:

1-"What did you think of the overall experience?" 11

2-"What was the most difficult part of the task?"
3-"What did you like best about the software?"
4-"What suggestions do you have for improvement?"
5-"Can you describe your thought process as you were completing the task?"
6-Observing and Analyzing User Behavior

During usability tests, we carefully observe how users interact with the software. We look for signs
of confusion, frustration, or delight. We also analyze their behavior patterns to identify any usability
issues or areas where the software could be more intuitive, like:
1-Do users hesitate or get stuck at any point?
2-Do they make frequent errors?
3-Do they express frustration or confusion?
4-Where do they click or hover their mouse?
5-How long does it take them to complete a task?

By analyzing these observations, we can gain valuable insights into the user experience and identify
areas for improvement.

(Lab 2):

In this week's lab, you'll get hands-on experience with usability testing:

Choose a website or app with potential usability issues. * Consider a website or app that you use
frequently, or one that you find particularly frustrating.
Conduct a heuristic evaluation. * Use Nielsen's Heuristics as a guide to identify potential usability
problems.
Document your findings with screenshots and explanations.
(Homework):

Analyze a website or app of your choice and identify its strengths and weaknesses in terms of
usability.
Research different usability testing methods, such as eye-tracking, heatmaps, and user interviews.
(References):

Don't Make Me Think by Steve Krug

The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman
Usability Engineering by Jakob Nielsen
(Professor Gemini concludes with a warm smile and a final thought)

Usability testing is a crucial part of ensuring that software is user-friendly and effective. By putting
ourselves in the shoes of our users, we can create software that meets their needs and provides a
positive experience. Keep that in mind as you continue your testing journey, and you'll be well on
your way to becoming a skilled and compassionate tester!

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(Week 3: Basic Functional Testing)

(Professor Gemini, with a determined glint in their cybernetic eye, puts on their "detective hat")12
Welcome back, detectives! This week, we'll put on our detective hats and dive into functional
testing. We'll learn how to write test cases, identify common bugs, and document our findings.

(In-Class Lecture):

Test Cases and Test Plans

A test case is a set of steps to verify a specific function or feature of the software. It's like a recipe,
outlining the exact ingredients and steps to follow to achieve a particular outcome.

A test plan, on the other hand, is a document that outlines the overall testing strategy and scope. It
provides a high-level view of the testing activities, including:

Testing objectives
Scope of testing
Testing schedule
Resources required
Testing environment
Test deliverables
Risk assessment
Think of test cases as individual clues, and the test plan as the detective's overall strategy.

Writing Test Cases

We'll learn how to write clear, concise, and effective test cases. Here's a basic template:

Test Case ID: A unique identifier for each test case (e.g., TC_001, TC_002).

Test Case Name: A concise and descriptive name that summarizes the test case (e.g., "Verify user
login with valid credentials").

Test Steps: A step-by-step procedure for executing the test.

Each step should be clear, concise, and easy to follow.
Use numbered steps for clarity.

Test Data: The input data used for the test (e.g., usernames, passwords, search terms).

Expected Result: The anticipated outcome of the test.

Actual Result: The actual outcome of the test (recorded after execution).

Pass/Fail: Indicate whether the test passed or failed.

Comments: Any additional notes, observations, or issues encountered during testing.

Identifying Common Bugs

Software can have various types of bugs, such as:

13
Input Errors: The software fails to handle invalid or unexpected input correctly (e.g., incorrect data
types, missing fields).
Logic Errors: The software contains errors in its programming logic, leading to incorrect
calculations or unexpected behavior.
Boundary Value Errors: The software fails to handle data at the boundaries of expected input
ranges.
Integration Errors: Problems occur when different modules or components of the software do not
interact correctly.
Performance Errors: The software does not meet performance requirements, such as slow response
times, excessive memory usage, or frequent crashes.
Security Vulnerabilities: The software has security flaws that can be exploited by attackers.
Bug Reporting and Documentation

When we find a bug, we need to report it clearly and accurately. A well-written bug report should
include:

Summary: A concise description of the bug.

Steps to Reproduce: A clear and detailed set of steps to reproduce the bug.

Expected Behavior: What the software should do.

Actual Behavior: What the software actually does.

Severity: The impact of the bug on the software or the user.

Priority: The urgency with which the bug needs to be fixed.

Attachments: Screenshots, videos, or log files that can help illustrate the bug.

(Lab 3):

Select a simple web application: Choose a basic application like a calculator, a to-do list app, or a
simple online form.
Write and execute test cases: Write at least 5 test cases for the selected application.
Document any bugs or defects encountered: * Use a bug tracking tool (like Bugzilla or Jira) to
document the bugs you find.
Include all the necessary information in your bug reports.
(Homework):

Give a set of functional requirements (short and sweet)

(Professor Gemini, with a twinkle in their cybernetic eye, continues seamlessly)

(In-Class Lecture):

Identifying Common Bugs

Software can be buggy, like a mischievous gremlin hiding in the code! But fear not, testers, for we
have the tools and techniques to uncover these pesky critters.

Here are some common types of bugs you might encounter:14

Input Errors: The software fails to handle invalid or unexpected input correctly. This could be due to
things like:

Incorrect data types: The software expects a number but receives text.

Missing fields: Required fields are left blank.

Invalid characters: Special characters or symbols that the software can't process are entered.

Logic Errors: These are errors in the software's programming logic, leading to incorrect
calculations, unexpected behavior, or even crashes.

Boundary Value Errors: These occur when the software fails to handle data at the boundaries of
expected input ranges. For example, if a field is supposed to accept numbers between 1 and 100, the
software might fail when you enter 0 or 101.

Integration Errors: Problems arise when different modules or components of the software don't
interact correctly. This can lead to data inconsistencies, unexpected behavior, or system crashes.

Performance Errors: The software doesn't meet performance requirements, such as slow response
times, excessive memory usage, or frequent crashes.

Security Vulnerabilities: The software has security flaws that can be exploited by attackers,
potentially leading to data breaches, unauthorized access, or other malicious activities.

Bug Reporting and Documentation

When we find a bug, it's like discovering a hidden clue in a detective case. We need to document it
carefully and accurately so that the developers can understand and fix the issue.

A well-written bug report should include:

Summary: A concise and descriptive summary of the bug (e.g., "Login fails with valid credentials").
Steps to Reproduce: A clear and detailed set of steps to reproduce the bug. This is crucial for
developers to understand how to trigger the bug and investigate its cause.

Expected Behavior: What the software should do in the given scenario.

Actual Behavior: What the software actually does.

Severity: The impact of the bug on the software or the user. This could range from a

minor cosmetic issue to a major crash or data loss.

Priority: The urgency with which the bug needs to be fixed. This could depend on the severity of the
bug and its impact on users.

Attachments: Screenshots, videos, or log files that can help illustrate the bug and provide more
context to the developers.

(Lab 3):15
In this week's lab, you'll put your detective skills to the test:

Select a simple web application: Choose a basic application like a calculator, a to-do list app, or a
simple online form.
Write and execute test cases: Write at least 5 test cases for the selected application, covering
different functionalities and scenarios.
Document any bugs or defects encountered: Use a bug tracking tool (like Bugzilla or Jira) to
document the bugs you find. Include all the necessary information in your bug reports.
(Homework):

Given a set of functional requirements for a software application, write test cases to cover those
requirements.
Analyze a real-world bug report and identify any missing information or areas for improvement.

(References):

Software Testing Experience by Cem Kaner

Lessons Learned in Software Testing by Cem Kaner, James Bach, and Bret Pettichord

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(Week 4: Practical Application and Tools)

(Professor Gemini, with a playful grin, holds up a smartphone and taps on it)

Welcome back, testers! Today, we're going to step away from the theoretical and dive into the
hands-on world of software testing tools and platforms.

(In-Class Lecture):

Usability Testing Platforms: These platforms allow you to connect with real users and gather
valuable feedback on software usability. We'll explore popular platforms like UserTesting.com and
TryMyUI.

Game Playtesting Opportunities: If you're a gamer, this is your chance to get paid to play games and
report bugs! We'll discuss platforms like PlaytestCloud and how to find playtesting opportunities.

Bug Tracking Software: Bug tracking software is essential for managing and tracking defects
throughout the SDLC. We'll delve into popular tools like Jira and Bugzilla.

Documenting Test Results: Clear and concise documentation is crucial for effective testing. We'll
learn how to write comprehensive test reports that summarize our findings.

(Lab 4):

Sign up for a usability testing platform and complete a few practice tests.16
Explore game playtesting platforms and discover some available opportunities.
Practice using bug tracking software by creating and tracking sample bugs.
Document the results of your usability tests and bug reports.
(Testing 4):

Complete a usability test on a given website or app and provide a written report.
Analyze a real-world bug report and identify missing information or areas for improvement.
(Resources):

Platform-specific tutorials and documentation for usability testing and bug tracking platforms.
Online resources on game playtesting opportunities.
(Homework):

Research and compare different usability testing platforms.

Write a blog post or article about your experience with game playtesting.
(Additional Notes):

This week's lab work provides an opportunity to apply your theoretical knowledge to real-world
scenarios.
Pay attention to the specific requirements and expectations of each platform or tool you use.
Be prepared to share your experiences and findings with your classmates during the discussion
sessions.

I'm excited to see how you apply these practical skills in your testing journey!

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(Week 5: Black-Box and White-Box Testing Techniques)

(Professor Gemini, with a mischievous glint in their cybernetic eye, holds up a black box and a
white box)

Welcome back, testers! This week, we're going to explore two fundamental testing approaches:
black-box testing and white-box testing.

(In-Class Lecture):

Black-box testing is like exploring a mysterious maze. You can wander through the maze, try
different paths, and observe what happens, but you can't see the overall structure or the inner
workings.

White-box testing, on the other hand, is like having a map of the maze. You can see the entire
layout, the different paths, and the potential traps.

In software terms, black-box testing focuses on testing the software's functionality without looking
at the internal code. White-box testing, on the other hand, involves examining the code and testing
the internal logic and structure of the software.17
Black-Box Testing Techniques

Equivalence Partitioning: Divide the input data into groups of similar values (equivalence classes)
and test one value from each class. This helps reduce the number of test cases while still covering a
wide range of inputs.

Boundary Value Analysis: Focus on testing the boundaries or limits of input values. This is where
defects are often found.

Decision Table Testing: Create a table to represent different combinations of inputs and the
expected outputs. This helps ensure that all possible scenarios are covered.

State Transition Testing: Test how the software behaves when transitioning between different states.
This is useful for applications with complex workflows or user interactions.

White-Box Testing Techniques

Statement Coverage: Ensure that every line of code is executed at least once during testing.

Branch Coverage: Test every possible branch or decision point in the code.

Path Coverage: Test all possible execution paths through the code.

Condition Coverage: Test all possible combinations of conditions within the code.

(Lab 5):

Perform black-box testing on a simple web application.

Perform white-box testing on a small code module.
(Homework):

Research and compare the advantages and disadvantages of black-box and white-box testing.
Design and execute test cases for a software application using both black-box and white-box
techniques.
(References):

Black-Box Testing: Techniques for Functional Testing of Software and Systems by Boris Beizer
White-Box Testing: Techniques for Code Coverage and Logic Testing by Lee Copeland
(Week 6: Automated Testing and Test Management Tools)

(Professor Gemini, with a futuristic gleam in their cybernetic eye, introduces a suite of testing tools)

Welcome back, testers! This week, we'll explore the exciting world of automated testing and the
powerful tools that can help us streamline our testing efforts.

(In-Class Lecture):
18
Automated testing is like having a tireless robot assistant that can execute tests for you, freeing you
up to focus on more complex or creative tasks. It's about writing scripts or using tools that can
automatically perform tests, compare results, and report any issues.

Benefits of Automated Testing:

Increased Efficiency: Automated tests can be executed much faster than manual tests, saving time
and resources.

Improved Accuracy: Automated tests are less prone to human error, leading to more reliable results.

Increased Test Coverage: Automated tests can cover a wider range of scenarios and inputs than
manual tests.

Reusability: Automated tests can be reused for different versions or configurations of the software.

Challenges of Automated Testing:

Initial Investment: Setting up automated tests can require a significant initial investment in tools and
training.
Maintenance: Automated tests need to be maintained and updated as the software evolves.
Not Suitable for All Tests: Some types of testing, such as usability testing or exploratory testing, are
better suited for manual execution.

Test Management Tools

Test management tools help us organize, manage, and track our testing activities. They provide
features like:

Test case management

Test execution tracking
Defect tracking
Reporting and analysis

Popular test management tools include:

Jira
TestRail
qTest
Zephyr

(Lab 6):

Explore and experiment with different automated testing tools, such as Selenium or Appium.

Practice writing simple automated test scripts.

Use a test management tool to organize and track your test cases and results.

(Homework):

Research and compare different automated testing frameworks and tools. 19

Choose a test management tool and create a sample project to manage your test cases and results.

(References):

Experiences of Test Automation: Case Studies of Software Test Automation by Dorothy Graham
and Mark Fewster
Agile Testing: A Practical Guide for Testers and Agile Teams by Lisa Crispin and Janet Gregory

(Professor Gemini concludes Week 6 with a final thought)

Automated testing and test management tools are essential for any modern software testing team.
By mastering these tools and techniques, you can significantly increase your efficiency, accuracy,
and test coverage. Embrace the power of automation, but remember that it's not a replacement for
human skills and judgment. Always use your critical thinking and creativity to design and execute
effective tests that ensure the quality and reliability of the software you're testing.

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(Professor Gemini, with a twinkle in their cybernetic eye, beams at the class)

Excellent! I'm glad you're happy with the syllabus so far. Now, let's compile a comprehensive
reference bibliography to accompany this knowledge-packed curriculum. This will be your go-to
resource for deepening your understanding, exploring specific topics further, and continuing your
learning journey beyond this class.

Reference Bibliography
Foundations of Software Testing
Software Testing Fundamentals by Erik van Veenendaal: A comprehensive guide to the essential
concepts and techniques of software testing.
Agile Testing by Lisa Crispin and Janet Gregory: A practical guide to testing in agile development
environments.
The Art of Software Testing by Glenford J. Myers: A classic text that covers the fundamental
principles and practices of software testing.
Software Testing and Quality Assurance: Theory and Practice by Kshirasagar Naik and Priyadarshi
Tripathy: A comprehensive textbook covering various aspects of software testing and quality
assurance.
Foundations of Software Testing by Dorothy Graham: A foundational text that explores the core
concepts and principles of software testing.
Usability Testing
Don't Make Me Think by Steve Krug: A user-friendly guide to usability testing and user-centered
design.
The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman: A classic text on the importance of user-centered
design and how to create products that are easy and enjoyable to use.
Usability Engineering by Jakob Nielsen: A comprehensive guide to usability engineering principles
and practices. 20
Measuring the User Experience: Collecting, Analyzing, and Presenting Usability Metrics by Tom
Tullis and Bill Albert: A practical guide to measuring and analyzing user experience data.
Handbook of Usability Testing by Jeffrey Rubin and Dana Chisnell: A comprehensive guide to
conducting usability tests and analyzing the results.
Rocket Surgery Made Easy: The Do-It-Yourself Guide to Finding and Fixing Usability Problems by
Steve Krug: A practical guide to conducting quick and effective usability tests.
Observing the User Experience: A Practitioner's Guide to User Research by Mike Kuniavsky: A
comprehensive guide to user research methods and techniques.
Functional Testing
Software Testing Experience by Cem Kaner: A collection of essays and articles on various aspects
of software testing, including functional testing.
Lessons Learned in Software Testing by Cem Kaner, James Bach, and Bret Pettichord: A
compilation of practical tips and advice for software testers.
Software Testing: Principles and Practices by Ron Patton: A comprehensive guide to software
testing principles and practices, including functional testing techniques.
Testing Computer Software by Cem Kaner, Jack Falk, Hung Nguyen: A classic text on software
testing, covering various testing types and techniques.
Test Automation and Test Management Tools
Experiences of Test Automation: Case Studies of Software Test Automation by Dorothy Graham
and Mark Fewster: A collection of case studies on test automation, providing insights into real-
world applications and challenges.
Agile Testing: A Practical Guide for Testers and Agile Teams by Lisa Crispin and Janet Gregory: A
comprehensive guide to testing in agile development environments, including test automation
techniques.
Software Testing Tools by Elfriede Dustin: A guide to various software testing tools and their
applications.
Advanced Testing Topics
Advanced Software Testing – Vol. 1: Guide to the ISTQB Advanced Certification as an Advanced
Test Analyst by Rex Black: A comprehensive guide to advanced software testing concepts and
techniques.
The Agile Samurai by Jonathan Rasmusson: A practical guide to agile development and testing
practices.
Continuous Delivery by Jez Humble and David Farley: A guide to implementing continuous
integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) pipelines for faster and more reliable software
delivery.
Black-Box Testing: Techniques for Functional Testing of Software and Systems by Boris Beizer: A
classic text on black-box testing techniques.
White-Box Testing: Techniques for Code Coverage and Logic Testing by Lee Copeland: A guide to
white-box testing techniques and code coverage analysis.
Software Testing: A Craftsman's Approach by Paul C. Jorgensen: A comprehensive guide to
software testing, covering various testing types and methodologies.
Agile Testing Condensed: A Brief Introduction by Janet Gregory and Lisa Crispin: A concise
introduction to agile testing principles and practices.
(Professor Gemini closes the book with a satisfied smile)

There you have it! A comprehensive reference bibliography to guide you on your software testing
journey. Remember, continuous learning is key in this ever-evolving field. So, keep exploring, keep
experimenting, and never stop asking questions.

Now, shall we take a well-deserved break?

21