University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 2

This module covers essential tools and skills for ensuring and maintaining software quality. It considers the range of possible software quality attributes, and the factors affecting their prioritisation in various contexts. The module discusses a number of concepts, practices and processes related to software quality,including testing, technical debt, refactoring, code review, continuous integration/delivery/deployment, and site reliability engineering. It also touches briefly on the place of formal software verification methods in critical systems.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Undergraduate - Before taking this module you must pass CS3099. Postgraduate - Before taking this module you must pass CS5030

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2hr x 11 weeks lectures, 1hr x 5 weeks tutorial/discussion

Scheduled learning hours: 27

Guided independent study hours: 123

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework - 60%, Written examination - 40%


Re-assessment: Coursework - 60%, Written examination - 40%

Personnel

Intended learning outcomes

• Understand and be able to apply various approaches to software testing.
• Understand the role and application of software verification to critical systems
• Understand key approaches to software dependability.
• Be able to apply refactoring to reduce technical debt.