Computer Science: insight4me Computer Science – Cutting Edge Software Development With The University of Sheffield & Goldsmiths, University of London

• Goldsmiths, University of London: Dr Nicolas Hine will present User Stories within Agile Development. The users are the reason most software is made. Different users have different perspectives, ranging from backend function and data management and maintenance through to end users seeking an answer to a question or to perform a task. All perspectives can be captured in a statement built form the template: “As a [persona], I [want to], [so that].” We might extend this by adding … “BUT I can’t because [problem/issue] so I need [functional intervention]”. Is this the extent to which developers working within an agile framework need to consider the users? Once this set of wants/needs is understood for the different users, can developers just get on and develop, with demonstrations to the software product owner? Not at all. Within the agile framework, users should be intimately involved in the development cycles, contributing throughout the entire process. In this session we will explore this conversation and why it needs to be enacted within the agile ceremonies and processes. 

• The University of Sheffield: Professor Phil McMinn will discuss Why is software testing so challenging? There have been many high-profile software disasters in the media recently that could have been prevented by more thorough software testing. But why is testing so hard to get right in the first place, and why do faults get missed? This talk gives an introduction to software testing, covering foundational material that demonstrates why, at its core, “complete” software testing of a system is generally impossible, and hence why it is a source of fascination for researchers. It aims to challenge our assumptions and thinking around common views about testing, and what can be done to ensure good software testing practice. 
  

insight4me is a series of subject specific webinars for Year 12 & 13 students, and equivalent. The sessions directly support students’ current studies by giving an insight into particular curriculum areas whilst affording an understanding of how these subjects continue beyond A-levels, T-levels, IB, BTEC and equivalent qualifications and vary between universities.

In this insight4me Computer Science online event for schools and colleges, The University of Sheffield & Goldsmiths, University of London will each have roughly 30 minutes to deliver a punchy, topic based ‘micro’ talk. Within an overall session theme of Cutting Edge Software Development, the universities have the freedom to choose their own focus and use the time to convey the key points of the case studies for the students.

Our events are designed so that a group of students can take part from a classroom or students and teachers can take part as individuals, either from school or from home. This means that sessions will continue irrespective of possible school closures.

As a live, participative event, this session will not be recorded but slides and other resources will be shared after the event, where available.

Suitable for: Year 12 & 13 students (and equivalent) studying, or with a possible interest in studying, Computer Science and related disciplines.

Preparation/Pre-Reading: Students may wish to consider the 2 topics and discuss some of the key elements in advance. Students can also think about questions they have about studying Computer Science at university level.

The IT Setup: The event will be run on Bluejeans (similar to Zoom) and participants will be able to join using laptops, tablets, and mobile devices. If you are joining as a school group, we recommend connecting with one device and projecting on to a whiteboard. You will be able to interact with the university via a microphone and/or typed comments and questions. Full details will be sent to those who have registered (see below) prior to the event.

Booking a Place: This is free for schools and colleges. If you would like to take part in this event, please register your interest using the link to the registration form below: