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Jason Olson
Developing software can be expensive. Surprisingly, much of this cost is found in software maintenance. Come learn about test-driven development, a practice that aims to help reduce these costs as well as enable building of higher quality software.
Read more
Developing software can be expensive. Surprisingly, much of this cost is found in software maintenance. Come learn about test-driven development, a practice that aims to help reduce these costs as well as enable building of higher quality software.
Read more
Developing software can be expensive. Surprisingly, much of this cost is found in software maintenance. Come learn about test-driven development, a practice that aims to help reduce these costs as well as enable building of higher quality software.
Test-driven development aims to help with runaway costs as well as enabling developers to build higher quality software in the first place. In this course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, you'll learn the basics of test-driven development, a development practice aimed at building high-quality software. First, you'll learn what test-driven development is and why it exists. Next, you’ll discover the different terminology and tools of the trade when doing test-driven development. Then. you’ll figure out how to practice test-driven development by working through a series of test-driven development examples. Finally, you’ll explore the gotchas you need to watch out for and other topics you should know. When you’re finished with this course, you'll have the necessary knowledge to start building up your test-driven development skills and to help yourself improve the quality of the software you build.
This course is no longer available. Find something similar by browsing:
Test-Driven Development
Unit Testing
Quality Assurance
Software Development
Software Design
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/0ajelu/test
What's inside
Syllabus
Course Overview
What Is Test-driven Development?
Testing Applications 101
Common Techniques for Testing Code
Read more
Syllabus
Course Overview
What Is Test-driven Development?
Testing Applications 101
Common Techniques for Testing Code
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Delves into the benefits of TDD, which is useful for building up high-quality software
Taught by Jason Olson, who is an experienced professional in the field
Examines various testing techniques, giving learners a comprehensive understanding of the software testing process
Provides a solid foundation for beginners seeking to incorporate TDD into their software development practices
Covers essential concepts and methodologies of TDD in a clear and accessible manner
Features hands-on examples and practical exercises to reinforce learning
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Reviews summary
Essential tdd big picture for developers
According to students, this course offers a largely positive and foundational guide to Test-driven Development. Learners frequently praise its ability to deliver a clear and concise understanding of TDD principles, making it highly effective for those seeking the "big picture" rather than deep technical dives. Many found the conceptual explanations and exploration of TDD's benefits and challenges particularly valuable. While it provides a strong theoretical framework, some students noted a desire for more hands-on coding exercises or advanced, language-specific implementations, suggesting it might be too basic for experienced professionals. Overall, it successfully prepares learners with the necessary knowledge to start building TDD skills.
Emphasizes the overarching concepts of TDD rather than specific implementations.
"It's truly a 'big picture' course, so don't expect specific language implementations."
"The course covers the big picture effectively; it's less about deep technical dives and more about core understanding."
"I appreciated the focus on the philosophy and general techniques of TDD, not just coding patterns."
Highly suitable for newcomers to TDD, potentially too basic for experienced developers.
"Fantastic introduction! As someone new to TDD, this course laid a solid foundation."
"For experienced developers, it might be a bit too basic. I was hoping for more advanced patterns."
"Not worth the time if you've even glanced at TDD before; it's very much for those starting out."
The 'gotchas' section and discussion of TDD's purpose were particularly valuable.
"The 'why' behind TDD was well articulated, and the 'gotchas' section was insightful."
"Learning about the common pitfalls in TDD was extremely helpful for avoiding future issues."
"The course did an excellent job explaining why TDD is important before diving into how."
Provides a strong and accessible conceptual understanding of TDD.
"Excellent overview of TDD. The instructor clearly explains the concepts and the examples are very helpful for understanding the workflow."
"Fantastic introduction! As someone new to TDD, this course laid a solid foundation. The 'why' behind TDD was well articulated."
"This course successfully gave me a clear and concise understanding of TDD principles, which was exactly what I needed."
Some learners desired more hands-on coding and advanced practical examples.
"I felt it was a bit too theoretical at times. Could use more hands-on coding challenges to solidify understanding."
"I wish there were more advanced examples or a deeper dive into mocks/stubs."
"For me, the course could be improved with more interactive coding or project-based assignments."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Test-driven Development: The Big Picture with these
activities:
Practice writing test cases for a simple function
Show steps
Hands-on practice writing test cases will help you develop proficiency in this essential skill for test-driven development.
Browse courses on
Test-Driven Development
Show steps
-
Select a simple function, such as one that calculates the area of a circle.
-
Write several test cases that cover different scenarios, including valid and invalid inputs.
-
Run the test cases and debug any failures.
Follow a tutorial on using a test-driven development framework
Show steps
Following a guided tutorial will provide you with hands-on experience using a specific test-driven development framework.
Browse courses on
Test-Driven Development
Show steps
-
Select a test-driven development framework, such as JUnit or PHPUnit.
-
Find a tutorial that covers the basics of using the framework.
-
Follow the tutorial step-by-step, implementing the concepts in your own code.
Organize and review your course notes and assignments
Show steps
Organizing and reviewing your course materials will help you identify areas where you need further clarification and reinforce what you have learned.
Show steps
-
Gather all your course notes, assignments, and any other relevant materials.
-
Review your notes to identify any gaps in your understanding.
-
Complete any outstanding assignments or practice exercises.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Develop a test plan for a small software project
Show steps
Creating a test plan will help you plan and organize your testing efforts, ensuring thorough and effective testing.
Browse courses on
Test-Driven Development
Show steps
-
Define the scope and objectives of the software project.
-
Identify the different types of testing that need to be performed.
-
Write detailed test cases for each type of testing.
-
Specify the expected results for each test case.
-
Create a schedule for executing the test plan.
Review 'Growing Object-Oriented Software, Guided by Tests'
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of test-driven development practices by reading a more advanced book on the topic.
View
Growing Object-Oriented Software, Guided by...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Purchase the book 'Growing Object-Oriented Software, Guided by Tests' by Steve Freeman and Nat Pryce.
-
Read Chapter 4-6, which focus on test-driven design and refactoring techniques.
Write a blog post explaining the basics of test-driven development
Show steps
By teaching others about test-driven development, you will reinforce your understanding of the concepts and improve your communication skills.
Browse courses on
Test-Driven Development
Show steps
-
Choose a specific aspect of test-driven development to focus on, such as its benefits or implementation.
-
Research the topic thoroughly to ensure accuracy and depth of knowledge.
-
Structure your blog post with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
-
Write in a clear and concise manner, using examples to illustrate key points.
-
Proofread your blog post carefully before publishing it.
Attend a meetup or conference on test-driven development
Show steps
Networking with other professionals in the field can expose you to new ideas and best practices in test-driven development.
Browse courses on
Test-Driven Development
Show steps
-
Find a local meetup or conference focused on test-driven development.
-
Attend the event and actively participate in discussions.
-
Connect with other attendees and exchange knowledge.
Practice writing test cases for a simple function
Show steps
Hands-on practice writing test cases will help you develop proficiency in this essential skill for test-driven development.
Browse courses on
Test-Driven Development
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a simple function, such as one that calculates the area of a circle.
- Write several test cases that cover different scenarios, including valid and invalid inputs.
- Run the test cases and debug any failures.
Follow a tutorial on using a test-driven development framework
Show steps
Following a guided tutorial will provide you with hands-on experience using a specific test-driven development framework.
Browse courses on
Test-Driven Development
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a test-driven development framework, such as JUnit or PHPUnit.
- Find a tutorial that covers the basics of using the framework.
- Follow the tutorial step-by-step, implementing the concepts in your own code.
Organize and review your course notes and assignments
Show steps
Organizing and reviewing your course materials will help you identify areas where you need further clarification and reinforce what you have learned.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather all your course notes, assignments, and any other relevant materials.
- Review your notes to identify any gaps in your understanding.
- Complete any outstanding assignments or practice exercises.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Develop a test plan for a small software project
Show steps
Creating a test plan will help you plan and organize your testing efforts, ensuring thorough and effective testing.
Browse courses on
Test-Driven Development
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define the scope and objectives of the software project.
- Identify the different types of testing that need to be performed.
- Write detailed test cases for each type of testing.
- Specify the expected results for each test case.
- Create a schedule for executing the test plan.
Review 'Growing Object-Oriented Software, Guided by Tests'
Show steps
Gain a deeper understanding of test-driven development practices by reading a more advanced book on the topic.
View
Growing Object-Oriented Software, Guided by...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase the book 'Growing Object-Oriented Software, Guided by Tests' by Steve Freeman and Nat Pryce.
- Read Chapter 4-6, which focus on test-driven design and refactoring techniques.
Write a blog post explaining the basics of test-driven development
Show steps
By teaching others about test-driven development, you will reinforce your understanding of the concepts and improve your communication skills.
Browse courses on
Test-Driven Development
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific aspect of test-driven development to focus on, such as its benefits or implementation.
- Research the topic thoroughly to ensure accuracy and depth of knowledge.
- Structure your blog post with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
- Write in a clear and concise manner, using examples to illustrate key points.
- Proofread your blog post carefully before publishing it.
Attend a meetup or conference on test-driven development
Show steps
Networking with other professionals in the field can expose you to new ideas and best practices in test-driven development.
Browse courses on
Test-Driven Development
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a local meetup or conference focused on test-driven development.
- Attend the event and actively participate in discussions.
- Connect with other attendees and exchange knowledge.
Career center
Learners who complete Test-driven Development: The Big Picture will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Software Developer
Software Developer
A Software Developer is a professional who specializes in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of software systems. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, can provide Software Developers with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively test and maintain their code. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques. It also provides examples of how to practice test-driven development, and discusses the gotchas that developers need to watch out for. By taking this course, Software Developers can improve their skills and knowledge in testing and maintaining software systems.
Quality Assurance (QA) Analyst
Quality Assurance (QA) Analyst
A Quality Assurance (QA) Analyst is responsible for ensuring that software products meet quality standards. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, can provide QA Analysts with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively test software applications. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques. It also provides examples of how to practice test-driven development, and discusses the gotchas that developers need to watch out for. By taking this course, QA Analysts can improve their skills and knowledge in testing software applications.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
A Software Engineer is a professional who applies engineering principles to the design, development, and maintenance of software systems. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, can provide Software Engineers with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively test and maintain their code. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques. It also provides examples of how to practice test-driven development, and discusses the gotchas that developers need to watch out for. By taking this course, Software Engineers can improve their skills and knowledge in testing and maintaining software systems.
Test Engineer
Test Engineer
A Test Engineer is responsible for planning, executing, and documenting software tests. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, can provide Test Engineers with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively test software applications. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques. It also provides examples of how to practice test-driven development, and discusses the gotchas that developers need to watch out for. By taking this course, Test Engineers can improve their skills and knowledge in testing software applications.
Software Architect
Software Architect
A Software Architect is responsible for designing and overseeing the development of software systems. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, can provide Software Architects with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively test and maintain their systems. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques. It also provides examples of how to practice test-driven development, and discusses the gotchas that developers need to watch out for. By taking this course, Software Architects can improve their skills and knowledge in testing and maintaining software systems.
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientist
A Computer Scientist is a professional who studies the theory and practice of computation. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, can provide Computer Scientists with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively test software applications. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques. It also provides examples of how to practice test-driven development, and discusses the gotchas that developers need to watch out for. By taking this course, Computer Scientists can improve their skills and knowledge in testing software applications.
DevOps Engineer
DevOps Engineer
A DevOps Engineer is responsible for bridging the gap between development and operations teams. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, can provide DevOps Engineers with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively test and deploy software systems. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques. It also provides examples of how to practice test-driven development, and discusses the gotchas that developers need to watch out for. By taking this course, DevOps Engineers can improve their skills and knowledge in testing and deploying software systems.
Product Manager
Product Manager
A Product Manager is responsible for managing the development and launch of new products. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, may be of interest to Product Managers as it can provide them with a better understanding of the software development process. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques. This knowledge can be helpful for Product Managers when working with developers and QA teams.
Project Manager
Project Manager
A Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and controlling projects. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, may be of interest to Project Managers as it can provide them with a better understanding of the software development process. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques. This knowledge can be helpful for Project Managers when working with development teams.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
A Technical Writer is responsible for creating documentation for software and other technical products. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, may be of interest to Technical Writers as it can provide them with a better understanding of the software development process and the importance of testing. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, may be of interest to Data Scientists as it can provide them with a better understanding of software development and testing. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques. This knowledge can be helpful for Data Scientists when working with software developers.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
A Business Analyst is responsible for analyzing business needs and developing solutions. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, may be of interest to Business Analysts as it can provide them with a better understanding of software development and testing. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques. This knowledge can be helpful for Business Analysts when working with software development teams.
Information Technology (IT) Consultant
Information Technology (IT) Consultant
An Information Technology (IT) Consultant is responsible for advising clients on the use of technology. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, may be of interest to IT Consultants as it can provide them with a better understanding of software development and testing. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques. This knowledge can be helpful for IT Consultants when working with clients who are developing software.
Software Tester
Software Tester
A Software Tester is responsible for testing software applications for bugs. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, can provide Software Testers with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively test software applications. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques. It also provides examples of how to practice test-driven development, and discusses the gotchas that developers need to watch out for. By taking this course, Software Testers can improve their skills and knowledge in testing software applications.
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmer
A Computer Programmer is responsible for writing and maintaining code for software applications. This course, Test-driven Development: The Big Picture, can provide Computer Programmers with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively test their code. The course covers the basics of test-driven development, including different terminology, tools, and techniques. It also provides examples of how to practice test-driven development, and discusses the gotchas that developers need to watch out for. By taking this course, Computer Programmers can improve their skills and knowledge in testing and maintaining their code.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/0ajelu/test
Reading list
We've selected 21 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Test-driven Development: The Big Picture.
An industry standard for test-driven development by the creator of Extreme Programming, this book provides a detailed overview of test-driven development and how to practice it effectively.
Provides a comprehensive overview of test-driven development (TDD) for embedded C systems. It covers the basics of TDD, as well as more advanced topics such as mocking, dependency injection, and continuous integration. This book would be a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about TDD for embedded systems.
Save
For test-driven development practitioners already comfortable with the basics, this book provides guidance on best practices and refactoring techniques for test code.
For those already comfortable with testing basics, this book explores how to apply testing to the design of object-oriented software.
Provides a comprehensive overview of unit testing, with a focus on best practices and patterns. It covers topics such as test design, test automation, and mocking. This book would be a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about unit testing.
Bridges the gap between traditional testing and agile development, offering practical guidance for those working in agile environments.
Covers general testing concepts, test planning and strategizing, and code testing, that is helpful even if you are new to test-driven development.
For learners interested in test-driven development in Java in particular, this practical and insightful guide.
For those interested in the larger context of test-driven development within software architecture, this book provides a deep dive into domain-driven design.
This practical guide to test-driven development provides many real-world examples and exercises.
Save
This comprehensive textbook provides an in-depth look at software testing from a theoretical and practical perspective.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of clean coding practices, which can complement test-driven development practices.
Provides a comprehensive overview of test-driven development (TDD) for Python. It covers the basics of TDD, as well as more advanced topics such as mocking, dependency injection, and continuous integration. This book would be a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about TDD for Python.
While not specific to testing, this book offers general advice on software development best practices that can be valuable for those new to the field.
An academic text on software testing in general, this book helpful reference for those interested in going deeper into foundational theories.
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Classic work on test-driven development (TDD) for Java. It covers the basics of TDD, as well as more advanced topics such as refactoring, dependency injection, and continuous integration. This book would be a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about TDD for Java.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of clean coding. This book would be a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about clean coding and its relationship to TDD.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of design patterns, a set of reusable solutions to common software design problems. This book would be a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about design patterns and their relationship to TDD.
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Provides a comprehensive overview of the Java programming language. This book would be a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about Java, which is the primary language used in the course.
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Provides a comprehensive overview of the Java programming language. This book would be a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about Java, which is the primary language used in the course.
Provides a comprehensive overview of test-driven development (TDD) for Java. This book would be a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about TDD for Java.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/0ajelu/test
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