Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/cobol-testing-debugging

In the ever-evolving world of technology, some languages remain foundational. COBOL, despite its age, continues to be a powerhouse in many enterprise systems, especially within finance and government. If you’re looking to enhance your skills in this critical area, IBM’s ‘COBOL Basic Testing and Debugging’ course on Coursera is an excellent starting point.

This course is designed to equip learners with essential knowledge for ensuring the reliability and efficiency of COBOL programs. From the get-go, the ‘Welcome’ module sets a clear path, outlining the course objectives and providing a roadmap for what’s to come. It’s a great way to understand the value you’ll gain from the program.

The second module, ‘Common COBOL Errors,’ is particularly valuable. It tackles the inevitable challenges faced when working with COBOL, such as understanding COBOL run-time errors and deciphering file status codes. This practical knowledge is crucial for any COBOL developer aiming to write robust code.

Moving into ‘Testing,’ the course delves into core concepts vital for quality assurance. You’ll learn about COBOL compile options and their role in testing, gain insights into mainframe unit testing, and explore the Test-Driven Development (TDD) methodology as applied to COBOL. These skills are indispensable for building and maintaining high-quality software.

The ‘Debugging’ module is where the rubber meets the road. It provides a comprehensive overview of how to detect, diagnose, and eliminate bugs. You’ll discover various COBOL debugging options and get an introduction to the powerful IBM z/OS Debugger, understanding its key features and functionalities. Mastering debugging is key to efficient problem-solving.

Finally, the ‘Congratulations’ module serves as a satisfying conclusion, reinforcing the learned objectives and suggesting next steps for your COBOL journey.

**Recommendation:**

IBM’s ‘COBOL Basic Testing and Debugging’ course is highly recommended for anyone working with or looking to enter the COBOL development space. Whether you’re a seasoned professional needing a refresher or a newcomer aiming to grasp the fundamentals of quality assurance in COBOL, this course offers clear, actionable insights. The structured syllabus, coupled with IBM’s expertise, makes it a valuable investment for enhancing your COBOL development skills.

Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/cobol-testing-debugging