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Apprenticeship training course

Software tester (level 4)

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Information about Software tester (level 4)

Carrying out tests to make sure computer software works as intended and is fit for purpose.

Knowledge, skills and behaviours
View knowledge, skills and behaviours

Knowledge

  • the relationship between testing and quality assurance and how testing contributes to higher quality
  • the difference between error, defect, and failure including the distinction between the root cause of a defect and its effects
  • the impact of context on the test process including the activities, tasks and work products that support the test process
  • the need for traceability between the requirements/test basis and the test work products
  • the principles underpinning the psychology of testing including how the required mindset differsfrom the development mindset, and how this can influence success of software testing activities.
  • the importance of accuracy and clear documentation of software tests and defects.
  • The relationship between test activities and software development activities in the SoftwareDevelopment Lifecycle
  • the application of testing across different recognised software development methodologies (sequential and iterative)
  • the range and features of software test types within the broad categories of Functional, Non-Functional, White Box/Structural and Change-related Testing
  • the objectives and approaches for testing at different Test Levels (such as Unit Testing, Component Integration Testing, System Testing, System Integration Testing and User AcceptanceTesting).
  • the role of static testing techniques and the review process in early defect detection
  • the characteristics of Black Box, White Box and Experience-based Test Techniques
  • the application of common Black Box Techniques to derive test conditions and test cases (Equivalence Partitioning, Boundary Value Analysis, Decision Table Testing and State TransitionTesting)
  • the role of software testing within the context of project and product risk reduction in the systems development life cycle.
  • the defect management process
  • the typical metrics used to support the monitoring and control of testing
  • the classification of tools to support testing
  • the role of test automation in the context of the software development lifecycle
  • the need for conformance to specific industry standards where appropriate (such as GDPR, health informatics, safety critical, etc.) related to software testing
  • where Software Testers fit within the wider team and the roles and responsibilities that others play
  • the characteristics of software architecture that impact on software testing in the development lifecycle
  • the core testing behaviours, skills and tools that are common to developers, testers, and multi-skilled roles in development lifecycles
  • the typical security vulnerabilities that should be addressed by testing in general and specifically by penetration testing

Skills

  • apply static test techniques
  • apply Black Box test techniques such as Equivalence Partitioning, Boundary Value Analysis, Decision Table Testing and State Transition Testing
  • analyse test objectives and requirements/test basis to define test scope and coverage criteria
  • use tools to automate, manage or support any test activity
  • Apply a regression strategy including selection of tests, maintenance of regression suites and identifying tests suitable for automation
  • use defect tracking tools
  • adapt and apply testing activities according to industry standard development methodologies (sequential and iterative)
  • apply the range of different software test types within the broad categories of Functional, Non-Functional (Security, Performance & Usability), and White Box/Structural Testing
  • apply and support testing at different Test Levels appropriate to the Software Development Lifecycle (such as Unit Testing, Component Integration Testing, System Testing, System Integration Testing and User Acceptance Testing), taking into account the fundamentals of testing
  • conform to specific industry standards where appropriate (such as GDPR, health informatics, safety critical, etc.) related to software testing
  • maintain up to date knowledge of technological developments in the field of Software Testing
  • record and interpret test progress and results, communicating test status to the relevant stakeholders
  • Design and follow tests to achieve coverage criteria

Behaviours

  • maintains a productive, professional, and secure working environment
  • Works independently and takes responsibility. For example, disciplined and responsible approach to risk, works diligently regardless of how much they are being supervised,accepts responsibility for managing their own time and workload and stays motivated and committed when facing challenges
  • A problem solving mindset within their own remit, being inquisitive and resourceful when faced with a problem to solve. Applies appropriate solutions. ensuring the true root cause of anyproblem is found and a solution is identified which prevents recurrence
  • Applies logical thinking, for example, uses clear and valid reasoning when making decisions related to undertaking the work instructions
  • analytical - uses informal and formal techniques to deconstruct a scenario or test basis to identify tests that will demonstrate software and systems are fit for purpose
  • Works collaboratively with a wide range of people in different roles, internally and externally, with a positive attitude to inclusion & diversity
  • Communicates effectively in a wide variety of situations; for example, contributing effectively to meetings and presenting complex information to technical and non-technical audience.
Apprenticeship category (sector)
Digital
Qualification level
4
Equal to higher national certificate (HNC)
Course duration
24 months
Maximum funding
£18,000
Maximum government funding for
apprenticeship training and assessment costs.
Job titles include
  • Automation tester
  • Integration tester
  • Penetration tester
  • Software qa tester
  • Software test analyst.
  • Software tester

View more information about Software tester (level 4) from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.