Learning Critical Testing Literacy Through Puzzles: an Experience Report

Abstract

In this paper, we report our experiences and takeaways from workshops using puzzles to learn CTL. Background: Software testing is important yet difficult to teach. We introduced a BoK of puzzle-based learning activities to teach CTL, based on a model of critical tester's cognition, leading to the pedagogical framework P4TEST. We conducted thirteen workshops with students, testers, teachers, and primary school pupils to assess puzzle-based teaching of critical testing literacy. Experience: Across eleven workshops, we used a semi-structured approach, varying puzzles, materials, and timing. In two additional workshops, we introduced workbooks and think-aloud sessions to gather more data on the learning experience. Observations: Participants consistently perceived themselves as experimenting while solving puzzles. Students tended to converge on solutions, while professionals continued exploring. Emotions were visible in behaviour but hard to surface through written reflection alone. Think-aloud sessions revealed immediate reasoning; written reflections elicited more meta-cognitive reflection. The theme Sensemaking / reflection-in-action captured how participants framed problems, navigated dead ends, and shifted strategies. Reflections: Puzzles are not the intervention: the entire sequence of solving, debriefing, and reflecting is. Designing that sequence more deliberately is the work ahead. We also developed an open-source web application with built-in analytics to customise workshops.