VCE Software Development U3O1 Definitions Worksheet: Testing modules and Artificial intelligence in programming (Modules 178–193)
Name:
Date:
Class:
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Key terms
Write what each term means, in your own words.
1
unit testing
2
modify code
3
AI code generation
4
code prompt
5
follow-up prompt
6
Verify AI-generated code
7
AI debugging
8
assert
9
optimisation
10
regression test
11
confidential data
12
# AI-generated: ChatGPT
13
AI over-reliance
Answer Key
VCE Software Development U3O1 · Modules 178–193 · Student wording will vary for definitions
1unit testing — Testing one function or class on its own, with its own test table, before joining it to the rest of the program, so a failing test points to that module.
2modify code — Read and trace the code first to see what it does, then change one small part at a time and re-run your test cases to check the effect of that change.
3AI code generation — Using AI tools, like editor assistants and chatbots, to turn plain-English prompts into program code. It saves time, but the code must still be checked and tested by the programmer.
4code prompt — A clear AI request stating the language, the task, the inputs and outputs, and the constraints. Keep to one task per prompt, e.g. Write a Python function that returns an average.
5follow-up prompt — A new prompt sent after reviewing AI code that names the exact problem, e.g. 'Use snake_case names and add range checking', so the next version fixes it.
6Verify AI-generated code — Read and trace AI code, then test it with your own boundary and invalid data, and check it meets the requirements. It can look right but be wrong or use made-up functions.
7AI debugging — Giving an AI tool your code, the error message and the expected behaviour so it suggests a cause and a fix, which you must still understand and test yourself.
8assert — AI can draft assert tests for a module, but you must check each expected output by hand to be sure it is correct. Also add any normal, boundary or invalid cases it missed.
9optimisation — Changing code so it runs faster, uses less memory or is easier to read, without changing what it does. For example, removing repeated code or using a built-in function.
10regression test — Re-running the same test cases on AI-optimised code to prove it still gives identical results as before. If any result changes, reject the change.
11confidential data — Private information like personal data, passwords or secret code. Never paste it into an AI tool, as it may be stored or used to train the model. Use fake sample data and check the data policy.
12# AI-generated: ChatGPT — A comment that acknowledges AI helped write the code. Name the tool and prompt, and check the output is not copied licensed work. You stay responsible for the final code.
13AI over-reliance — Trusting AI-generated code without checking it. The code may be biased, outdated or insecure, and you lose your own skills and judgement. Always review it and stay in control.