Software Engineering Metrics

For each of the following pairs of terms in software engineering, describe an important relationship and an importance difference between them. Do not merely define each term!

• Metric vs. indicator
• Class vs. object
• Encapsulation vs. information hiding

Identify four different kinds of coupling. For each one, tell how it fits the definition of coupling.

Suppose you wanted to develop one combined metric for coupling, using only individual metrics for each of the four in part (a). What would be a reasonable way to come up with this combined number? Your answer must result in a single number for coupling. Justify your answer.

Draw a single class representing a student in an ANGEL course. Include at least four attributes and four operations.

Pick ONE of the following design quality factors -- modifiability, information hiding or reusability – and evaluate your class with respect to that factor. You will be graded on your evaluation, NOT the quality of the class itself!

Consider the Depth of Inheritance Tree (DIT) metric.

• Examine the default standard class library of any one of these programming languages: C#, C++, Java, Python. What is the DIT measure for it?
• In class, we mentioned possible modifications or extensions to the DIT. Define one such modification or extension and explain why you think it might indicate something useful.
• Perform your modified metric on the same class library as in (a). Does it provide any additional insight into design? Explain your answer.