Software Measurement and Testing

Module description

Aims and Learning Outcomes

To convey a systematic understanding of the key elements of software measurement and testing, in particular focusing on automated test data generation and with a discussion of the relative strengths and weakness of each technique

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

• Describe, apply and critique a number of well-known software metrics for testing adequacy;
• Demonstrate a critical evaluation and analysis of the key techniques for software testing, as well as exhaustive verification techniques that go beyond testing;
• Identify and apply relevant techniques for software testing and verification, including techniques that go beyond testing and to be able to apply it in a context of a real-life software system.

Syllabus

This module conveys an understanding of the basic elements of software measurement and testing, in particular focusing on automated test data generation and with a discussion of the relative strengths and weakness of each technique.

An indication of the types of topic:

• Basic definitions of software design, development, and analysis; software lifecycle.
• Test and analysis activities matched to different phases in design, development, deployment, and maintenance of software.
• The concepts of white-box testing and black-box testing.
• Finite models for software testing activities: control flow graphs, data-flow graphs, finite state machines, combinatorial models.
• Coverage metrics as measures of exhaustiveness of testing.
• Differences between functional correctness and robustness and testing techniques to assess these qualities.
• Symbolic execution.
• Static analysis techniques.
• Test oracles and automatic extraction of correctness properties.

Assessment details

Please note: the below assessment details for the 2025/26 academic year may be updated. The confirmed details will be available on the Student Handbook and on the module KEATS page at the beginning of the semester.

• 85% Examination
• 15% coursework

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.