Software Testing

One of the jobs a student can have when they grow up is that of a software tester. This past week we tested a different version of Kid Pix.

Problems with the Current Version
We currently use Kid Pix 4 for Schools. I changed from Kid Pix Deluxe 3 when the Intel Macs had to be purchased for the classroom. Version three only worked for Power PC machines.

Version four tends to freeze at times on the Intel Macs. Once the program freezes, I can use a keyboard shortcut to save the work, restart the program, and reload the file.

This past week, I received a trial version of HyperStudio and with it came Kid Pix Deluxe 3X.

Software Tester's Job
It would be impossible to give the software a real workout by myself. I have been introducing the job of a software tester to the students. I explain that every piece of software has to be tested before it is sold. In a company, the software tester tries all the different options and tries to find out what might make it break.

The students are enjoying finding the differences between the two versions of the product. They like the new water hose that erases pictures. It has not frozen on the Intel Macs once.

It did loose the arrow to select colors on one Power PC machine and the program shut down consistently with one wacky brush.

We will continue to test the program this week. I will have to take a look at the two PowerPC machines and see if they have less memory than the other PowerPCs in the room. If so, Kid Pix Deluxe 3X might be just what is needed in the computer lab.