iSQI CT-AI Exam - Topic 4 Question 16 Discussion

Pairwise testing is used to handle the large number of combinations of parameters that can arise in complex systems like self-driving cars. The question asks which of the given options is least likely to be a reason for the explosion in the number of parameters.

Different Road Types (A): Self-driving cars must operate on various road types, such as highways, city streets, rural roads, etc. Each road type can have different characteristics, requiring the car's system to adapt and handle different scenarios. Thus, this is a significant factor contributing to the growth of parameters.

Different Weather Conditions (B): Weather conditions such as rain, snow, fog, and bright sunlight significantly affect the performance of self-driving cars. The car's sensors and algorithms must adapt to these varying conditions, which adds to the number of parameters that need to be considered.

ML Model Metrics to Evaluate Functional Performance (C): While evaluating machine learning (ML) model performance is crucial, it does not directly contribute to the explosion of parameter combinations in the same way that road types, weather conditions, and car features do. Metrics are used to measure and assess performance but are not themselves variable conditions that the system must handle.

Different Features like ADAS, Lane Change Assistance, etc. (D): Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and other features add complexity to self-driving cars. Each feature can have multiple settings and operational modes, contributing to the overall number of parameters.

Hence, the least likely reason for the incredible growth in the number of parameters is C. ML model metrics to evaluate the functional performance.

ISTQB CT-AI Syllabus Section 9.2 on Pairwise Testing discusses the application of this technique to manage the combinations of different variables in AI-based systems, including those used in self-driving cars.

Sample Exam Questions document, Question #29 provides context for the explosion in parameter combinations in self-driving cars and highlights the use of pairwise testing as a method to manage this complexity.