COM4506 Testing and verification in safety-critical systems

Aims/Description: This module provides an introduction to the processes and problems of building complex software such as for use in aerospace applications. Topics covered can be split into four major groups: safety, specification languages, concepts of software engineering, different methods of software testing. A substantial amount of time will be spent on the ideas of software testing and specific testing techniques. 1. Safety includes software and systems safety, methods of performing hazard analysis, human factors and the IEC 61508 standard. 2. Specification languages such as Statecharts. 3. Software engineering concepts focus on the software lifecycle, safe language subsets, software testing and maintenance. 4. The software testing part is concerned with advanced approaches to generating software tests.

Restrictions on availability: Students taking this module are expected to have done a programming module such as COM160 or have completed a first year in the School of Computer Science. The module does not require advanced programming concepts.

Staff Contact: HIERONS ROBERT M

Teaching Methods: Lectures, Laboratory work, Independent Study

Assessment: Formal Exam, Course work

Notes: This unit forms part of an accredited degree programme

Information on the department responsible for this unit (Computer Science):

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Teaching timetable

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Teaching methods and assessment displayed on this page are indicative for 2025-26.