How QA manual and QA automation training differ
How QA manual and QA automation training differ
Training in QA manual and QA automation differs in several ways worth weighing before you choose a course. In this article we go through the main differences between the two: what each covers, how long it takes, how hard it is, and where each leads professionally.
What QA manual training covers
QA manual concentrates on testing software by hand.
Testing fundamentals
At this stage students learn the basic concepts and principles of testing, including the types of test, the methodologies and the testing life cycle. Particular attention goes to the principles of testing, classifying defects, assessing risk, prioritising tests and managing test artefacts.
Writing and running test cases
Students learn to write test cases from a product's requirements and to test by hand using a range of techniques. The topics here include analysing requirements, designing test scenarios, applying black-box and white-box methods, and using approaches such as exploratory and model-based testing.
Documentation and reporting
At this stage students learn to document defects, write bug reports and work with the development team. The course covers effective communication, the structure and content of a bug report, tracking a defect's status, and managing incidents and changes during testing.
Regression and acceptance testing
Students learn regression and acceptance testing methods for confirming a product still works after changes and before a new release. The topics include planning and running regression tests, testing strategy, configuration management and how the team works together.
An interest in technology and programming
If you enjoy working with code, learning new technology and solving technical problems, QA automation may be the better fit. If you would rather concentrate on analysing a product, on how users interact with it, and on a less technical approach, QA manual may suit you better.
The job market and career prospects
Demand for automation specialists has grown in recent years, as automated testing becomes more important to development efficiency. But manual testing still plays an important part, particularly in interface testing and checking new functionality.
Difficulty and duration
QA automation training can be harder and take longer, since it means learning programming languages and automation technology. QA manual training, by contrast, is more approachable and quicker, particularly for anyone without a technical background.
Where each leads professionally
After finishing either course you can keep developing your skills and competence in software testing. You can also move between manual and automated testing depending on what a project needs and where your own interests take you.
Choosing between the two
Broadly, the choice between QA manual and QA automation comes down to your preferences, your interests and your career goals. Do your research and pick the course that will give you the skills you need and let you build a successful career in software testing.
The PASV QA Automation course
The QA Automation course at PASV trains you in testing for work at US companies. It runs for six to eight months, takes a few hours a day and consists of five classes a week. Students who complete it successfully can expect a starting salary of around $100,000 a year. Join the programme and pick up a new profession from scratch, studying in small groups with mentors to support you. https://pasv.us/en/course/qa-automation
The PASV QA Manual course
The QA Manual course at PASV offers thorough training aimed at preparing software testers. It requires no experience, no technical education and no other background, and students can start looking for work as soon as two months in. The course runs for four months with classes five times a week. The programme includes practice on a commercial American project, where students learn to monitor product quality, find defects and write bug reports. By the end of the course students are fully ready to interview.
Students who complete it successfully can expect a starting salary of around $80,000 a year. Join the programme and pick up a new profession from scratch, studying in small groups with mentors to support you. https://pasv.us/en/course/qa-manual
What the PASV courses offer:
1. Plenty of practice to build real skills
2. Interview preparation and help with your resume
3. An internship on a commercial project
4. Spouses can study together on the same cohort free of charge
