Testing Fundamentals for Software Developers
A complete Rise course, teaching the basics of software testing with integrated Storyline interactions to enhance the learning experience.
Problem and Solution
New software development engineers at this company face a problem when entering the workplace. Undergraduate programs and bootcamps haven’t sufficiently prepared them on testing practices. This is justified, as there is no simple way to replicate the testing environment of multiple applications functioning across a company network. Nevertheless, the requirement of testing knowledge in their new position remains, so most are learning about it on the job.
New software development graduates and interns at this company demonstrate little knowledge of the following major factors of testing:
1. the importance and organizational impact of proper testing practices
2. differences in types of tests
3. the bounds of each test type
4. test case types
This learning solution is a brief eLearning course on the basics of automated testing. The user interface allows for self-pacing and includes several code and test samples, as well as access to additional resources for learning extension. The eLearning course includes content based on the major areas of concern related to testing, presented in chunks. The first presents a narrative that illustrates the importance of solid testing practices and negative consequences when testing is not done properly. The second includes the differences in types of tests and the bounds of each. The next is comprised of characteristics of different test case types. The final section illustrates a developer’s critical thinking process when predicting edge cases.
My Process
Design
I created a design blueprint for this course to ensure alignment between the instructional goal, learning objectives, assessments, and learning activities.
This document shows that each module corresponds to one of the course's four major objectives. Within each module, the learner is introduced to the content by reading about it or watching a demonstration, then connects it with their own experience through discussions with other professionals. The modules end with a "Do" activity, where learners are actively practicing the skill. Progress is then assessed using short-answer questions, multiple-choice questions, and skills demonstrations.
Development
This course was created using Articulate Rise 360. I customized the style of the course to suit the branding of the company I was working with.
Many block types were used, including knowledge checks, lists, embedded discussions, Storyline integrations, attachments, galleries, and multimedia.
I have previous experience developing in Rise 360, so I was able to apply it to this project by creating block templates and working more efficiently overall.
Takeaways
This project was very valuable in that it gave me more experience working with a SME (subject matter expert). I am not knowledgable in coding, so creating this course was a challenging task I am proud of accomplishing successfully. It increased my confidence in my instructional design skill, since I was able to focus on the learner and prioritize engagement and interactive strategies.
