On the use of the classification-tree method by beginning software testers

The classification-tree method is a black box testing method first introduced by Grochtmann and Grimm and recently enhanced by Chen et al. to become an integrated methodology. This paper describes a case study through which we attempt to understand the methods used by novice software testers to test their own programs, as well as their perception of the classification-tree method. The subjects of this study were advanced undergraduate students at a university with one year full-time working experience in the software industry. Our study found that white box testing methods were initially far more popular than black box methods, but the majority of them were convinced of the benefits of the classification-tree method after they have learned and used it