From RSpec to Jest: JavaScript testing for Rails devs

The video titled "From RSpec to Jest: JavaScript testing for Rails devs" presented by Stefanni Brasil at RailsConf 2024 is aimed at helping Rails developers transition their testing skills to JavaScript by leveraging the Jest testing framework. The session is specifically tailored for those who are accustomed to writing Ruby tests but feel overwhelmed by the JavaScript testing landscape.

Key Points Discussed in the Video:
- Introduction to JavaScript Testing: The speaker emphasizes the growing significance of JavaScript in web development and the importance of being proficient with automated testing in this language.
- Overview of Jest: Brasil provides a foundational understanding of Jest, outlining its features that make it a popular choice among developers.
- Unit Testing Basics: The talk covers the essentials of writing unit tests in JavaScript using Jest, including how to structure tests and utilize Jest's functions effectively.
- Test Data Setup: Specific guidance is given on how to prepare test data that will be used in unit tests to simulate different scenarios accurately.
- Mocking HTTP Requests: Brasil explains how to mock HTTP requests, a valuable technique for testing components that interact with APIs without requiring live requests.
- DOM Element Assertions: There is instruction on how to assert elements within the Document Object Model (DOM) using Jest, helping developers ensure that their user interface behaves as expected.
- Common Gotchas: The speaker highlights potential pitfalls when switching from Ruby to JavaScript testing, helping attendees avoid common mistakes.
- Tips for a Joyful Testing Experience: Throughout the presentation, Brasil shares numerous tips to enhance the enjoyment and efficiency of writing tests in JavaScript, aiming to build confidence for developers who may feel intimidated.

Concluding Takeaways: By the end of this session, attendees are expected to have expanded their skill set, enabling them to write JavaScript tests with the same confidence as Ruby tests. The insights shared provide a pathway for Rails developers to integrate JavaScript testing into their workflow, paving the way for more productive and reliable web application development.

From RSpec to Jest: JavaScript testing for Rails devs
Stefanni Brasil • May 24, 2024 • Detroit, MI

Do you want to write JavaScript tests but feel stuck transferring your testing skills to the JavaScript world? Do you wish that one day you could write JS tests as confidently as you write Ruby tests? If so, this talk is for you.
Let’s face it: JavaScript isn’t going anywhere. One way to become more productive is to be confident with writing JavaScript automated tests.
Learn how to use Jest, a popular JavaScript testing framework. Let's go through the basics of JavaScript Unit testing with Jest, gotchas, and helpful tips to make your JS testing experience more joyful.
By the end of this talk, you’ll have added new skills to your JS tests toolbox. How to set up test data, mock HTTP requests, assert elements in the DOM, and more helpful bites to cover your JavaScript code confidently.

RailsConf 2024