Applying Test Sessions to Research

By Jonathan Clarkin • March 10, 2014

A colleague asked me to investigate JavaScript unit testing options for developers. While planning my approach, a realization struck: I’m testing something - a domain of knowledge.

If I’m testing, why not use proven testing techniques to structure the investigation?

Test Sessions for Knowledge Exploration

Enter the experiment: applying test session methodology to research. I’ve:

  • Defined a mission: Evaluate JavaScript unit testing tools for developer adoption
  • Written an initial charter: Explore available testing libraries, frameworks, and tooling
  • Started documenting my path through online resources, documentation, and community contacts

Why This Approach Works

Test sessions bring structured thinking to research:

  • Time-boxed exploration prevents endless rabbit holes
  • Charter-driven focus keeps investigation targeted
  • Session notes capture both discoveries and dead ends
  • Explicit reporting creates actionable deliverables

Instead of wandering through JavaScript testing frameworks aimlessly, I’m treating the problem space like any testable system - with hypotheses, exploration strategies, and documented outcomes.

The Meta-Learning

This experiment in applied methodology has a bonus: I’m simultaneously learning JavaScript testing tools AND improving my research process. The session notes will become the foundation for my first formal test report outside traditional software testing.

The insight: If knowledge domains can be explored like software systems, then testing techniques can improve how we learn and share discoveries. Time to see where this chartered exploration leads!