1.4 assignment

[programlich]

• the import from uio import StringIO does not work. Replacing uio with io solves the issue
• the import ussl does not work. Replacing it with ssl solves the issue. Same for the use of ussl.CERT_REQUIRED in line 63 of microcontroller_client.py
• the my-secrets.py from previous toutorials/assigments did not contain COURSE_ID. This variable is added withing assignment 1.4 and can cause confusion when the user tries to keep working with his old version of my-secrets.py
• Maybe irrelevant: DeprecationWarning: Callback API version 1 is deprecated, update to latest version

Regarding the structure of this assignment, I must admit until now I did not get it, even though I really tried. What I don't understand is, why there are dummy functions used withing the tests even though I must be connected with the microcontroller and have the code running there. I would have expected to either have a tests environment in codespace which can run without the microcontroller at all, or having everything be running on the physical hardware.

[sgbaird]

Thanks! Will look to address these. For the dummy functions, I understand the sentiment. On the auto grading check side, some checks are based on "was the code written correctly" which generally required being able to execute the code. Other checks are based on "are the outcomes of the physical hardware running the code as expected?". Partial points can be awarded in this case, and it can help with debugging and robustness of the tests to some extent. Is there a specific place you'd suggest making this clarification? Open to alternative suggestions.

[programlich]

Alright, I get it, Thanks for the clarification. Honestly, I think there's no need to give a detailed explanation about this in the assignment. Just a hint, that the tests will run with both, dummy and "real world" functions. That way the user can focus on the code and will hopefully not spend his time thinking about something, which is actually irrelevant for him in that moment.

[sgbaird]

Aside, hopefully should address first point for future learners