Testing Patterns Repository

Introduction

This repository serves as a comprehensive resource for instructors developing automated tests for exams and practice problems. It encapsulates a curated collection of rigorously designed testing patterns, each addressing specific pedagogical and assessment challenges.

Core Objectives:

• Pedagogical Alignment: Ensure that automated assessments effectively measure student understanding of fundamental concepts.
• Assessment Robustness: Enhance the reliability and validity of exams and practice problems by incorporating robust and well-defined testing strategies.
• Instructor Efficiency: Streamline the test creation process by providing reusable and adaptable testing patterns, minimizing the time and effort required to construct high-quality assessments.

Repository Structure

This repository adheres to a clear and organized structure:

• Root README: This document, providing an overview of the repository's purpose, structure, and usage guidelines.
• Pattern Directories: Each directory represents a distinct testing pattern:
  • Pattern README: A dedicated README file within each directory contains:
    • Problem Statement: A concise and precise description of the pedagogical or assessment challenge addressed by the pattern.
    • Rationale: A well-reasoned justification for the pattern's inclusion, highlighting its pedagogical significance and potential benefits for student learning.
    • Pattern Description: A detailed and unambiguous explanation of the testing pattern, including:
      • Core principles and underlying concepts.
      • Specific techniques and methodologies employed.
      • Input/output specifications and expected behavior.
      • Examples of typical test case scenarios.
    • Implementation Considerations: Practical guidance for implementing the pattern, including:
      • Potential challenges and limitations.
      • Best practices and recommended approaches.
      • Considerations for adapting the pattern to different learning objectives and course contexts.
  • Code Examples: A dedicated directory named "code_examples" will contain:
    • Subdirectories named "example_1", "example_2", ..., "example_10" (or more as needed).
    • Each subdirectory will contain code examples demonstrating concrete implementations of the pattern within a specific programming language or testing framework. Examples are clearly labeled and accompanied by explanatory comments.

Usage Guidelines

• Pattern Selection: Carefully select the most appropriate testing patterns for each specific learning objective and assessment scenario.
• Pattern Customization: Adapt and customize existing patterns to fit the unique requirements of individual courses and assignments.
• Documentation: Maintain thorough documentation for all custom modifications and extensions.
• Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and update existing patterns based on feedback, new research findings, and evolving pedagogical needs.

Contributing

Contributions to this repository are actively encouraged. Please submit Pull Requests (PRs) for new testing patterns. Each PR should:

• Include a new directory for the testing pattern.
• Contain the required Pattern README file within the directory.
• Include code examples within the "code_examples" directory under an appropriate subdirectory.