Hands-On: Interacting with Interactive Fault Localization Tools

Spectrum-Based Fault Localization (SBFL) is one of the most popular genres of Fault Localization (FL) methods among researchers. One
possibility to increase the practical usefulness of related tools is to involve interactivity between the user and the core FL algorithm. In this setting, the developer provides feedback to the fault localization algorithm while iterating through the elements suggested by the algorithm. This way, the proposed elements can be influenced in the hope to reach the faulty element earlier (we call the proposed approach Interactive Fault Localization, or iFL). With this work, we would like to propose a presentation of our recent achievements in this topic. In particular, we overview the basic approach, and the supporting tools that we implemented for the actual usage of the method in different contexts: iFL4Eclipse for Java developers using the Eclipse IDE, and CharmFL for Python developers using the PyCharm IDE. Our aim is to provide an insight into the practicalities and effectiveness of the iFL approach, while acquiring valuable feedback. In addition, with the demonstration we would like to catalyse the discussion with researchers on the topic.

Keywords:     spectrum-based fault localization, interactive fault localization, interactive debugging, testing, user feedback