Software Engineering Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is a primary focus of software engineering?

Developing hardware architectures

Performing network administration

Designing user interfaces

Theories, methods, and tools for software development (correct)

Which statement about software costs is accurate?

Software costs are always lower than hardware costs.

Maintenance costs can exceed initial development costs for long-lived systems. (correct)

Development costs are typically higher than maintenance costs.

All software is free to develop and maintain.

Why is software engineering of increasing importance in developed nations?

Because hardware development has peaked.

Because all economies are independent of software.

Because more systems are software controlled, impacting economies. (correct)

Because it leads to higher unemployment rates.

What do ethical and professional issues in software engineering refer to?

Concerns that impact software engineers’ responsibilities. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes software engineering from computer science?

Software engineering emphasizes practical application and development. Signup and view all the answers

How does expenditure on software impact the economy of developed countries?

It represents a significant fraction of the GNP. Signup and view all the answers

What is one common misconception regarding software engineering?

Software can be developed without a structured process. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following questions is considered a frequently asked question in software engineering?

What is a software process model? Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary requirement for software engineers to be respected as professionals?

Honest and ethically responsible behavior Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the duty of confidentiality for engineers?

Always respect the confidentiality of employers or clients Signup and view all the answers

What should engineers avoid regarding their competence?

Overstating their skills Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes bespoke software from generic software?

Bespoke software is created according to specific customer specifications. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines software engineering?

An engineering discipline focused on all aspects of software production. Signup and view all the answers

Which principle do software engineers need to be aware of concerning intellectual property?

Engineers should protect the intellectual property of employers and clients Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes computer misuse according to the principles of ethical practice?

Playing games on an employer's machine Signup and view all the answers

What is CASE in the context of software engineering?

An abbreviation for Computer-Aided Software Engineering. Signup and view all the answers

In what way do software engineering methods differ from computer science theories?

Software engineering methods emphasize practical software delivery. Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable feature of the ACM/IEEE Code of Ethics?

It relates to various roles such as educators and policy makers Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the attributes of good software?

Good software should be reliable, maintainable, and usable. Signup and view all the answers

Which principle must engineers adhere to regarding computer use?

Ensure they have permission to access all computers Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible consequence of not following the ethical standards set for software engineers?

Loss of professional respect and credibility Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key challenges facing software engineering?

The rapid change in user requirements and technology. Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes software as a product?

Computer programs and their accompanying documentation. Signup and view all the answers

How is the development of new software commonly accomplished?

By developing new programs or reusing existing ones. Signup and view all the answers

What does the preamble of the code of ethics emphasize about its components?

The details make the aspirations more actionable. Signup and view all the answers

Which principle emphasizes acting consistently with the public interest?

Public Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary commitment of software engineers according to the principles?

To ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the public. Signup and view all the answers

How should software engineers balance their duties to clients and the public?

Ensure client interests align with public interests. Signup and view all the answers

What essential aspect does the principle of Judgment highlight for software engineers?

Maintaining integrity and independence in judgment. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of the Eight Principles outlined for software engineers?

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary responsibility of software engineers according to the code of ethics?

To advance the integrity and reputation of the profession Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a dilemma that software engineers might face?

Disagreement with the policies of senior management Signup and view all the answers

What role do software engineering managers and leaders have according to the principles?

They should promote an ethical approach to management. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential for software engineers to ensure their products meet professional standards?

To guarantee the welfare of the public. Signup and view all the answers

What essential product attributes should software engineers ensure in their products?

Maintainability, dependability, efficiency, and usability Signup and view all the answers

Which activity is NOT part of the software process?

Software marketing Signup and view all the answers

What should software engineers prioritize to support their colleagues?

Being fair and supportive Signup and view all the answers

In what context might a software engineer face an ethical dilemma?

When releasing a safety-critical system without adequate testing Signup and view all the answers

What does lifelong learning involve for software engineers?

Continuously updating their professional knowledge and skills Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not considered an organized method of producing software?

Random trial and error methods Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

What is Software Engineering?

Software engineering is a discipline that deals with all aspects of software production.
Software engineers should adopt systematic and organized practices for developing software.

What is Software?

Computer programs and associated documentation (like requirements, design models, and user manuals) comprise software.
Software can be developed for a specific customer (bespoke) or for a broad market (generic).

Software Engineering vs. Computer Science

Computer science focuses on theoretical foundations, while software engineering focuses on practical software development and delivery.
Computer science theories are insufficient to provide a complete foundation for software engineering.

Software Costs

Software costs often exceed hardware costs, especially in personal computers.
Maintaining software is often more expensive than developing it.
Software engineering aims to achieve cost-effective software development.

Professional and Ethical Responsibility

Software engineers are expected to behave honestly and ethically.
Ethical behavior goes beyond simply upholding the law.

Issues in Professional Responsibility

Confidentiality: Engineers should respect client or employer confidentiality, regardless of formal agreements.
Competence: Engineers shouldn't misrepresent their skills and should decline work outside their expertise.
Intellectual Property Rights: Engineers should be aware of intellectual property laws and protect the rights of clients and employers.
Computer Misuse: Engineers are ethically obligated to not misuse computers, ranging from casual misuse to serious offenses like spreading viruses.
The ACM/IEEE Code of Ethics: Professional organizations in the US have created a code of ethical practice for software engineers, encompassing principles like public interest, client and employer interests, product quality, judgment, management, profession, colleagues, and personal development.

Key Points

Software engineering is a discipline encompassing all stages of software production.
Software products consist of programs and accompanying documentation. Essential attributes include maintainability, dependability, efficiency, and usability.
Software processes involve activities such as specification, development, validation, and evolution.
Methods provide guidance on processes, notations, rules, and design guidelines for creating software.

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Description

This quiz provides an overview of software engineering, covering key concepts such as the definition of software, its costs, and how software engineering differs from computer science. Test your knowledge on the principles and practices that define this important field in technology.