Feature selection using a multi-strategy improved parrot optimization algorithm in software defect prediction

Software defect detection is a critical research topic in the field of software engineering, aiming to identify potential defects during the development process to improve software quality and reduce maintenance costs. This study proposes a novel feature selection and defect prediction classification algorithm based on a multi-strategy enhanced Parrot Optimization (PO) algorithm. Firstly, to address the limitations of the original Parrot Optimization algorithm, such as strong dependence on the initial population, premature convergence, and insufficient global search capability, this article develops a multi-strategy enhanced Parrot Optimization algorithm (MEPO). Experiments conducted on eight benchmark test functions validate the superior performance of MEPO in terms of convergence speed and solution accuracy. Secondly, to mitigate the adverse impact of irrelevant features on model performance in traditional software defect prediction methods, this study introduces a binary multi-strategy enhanced Parrot Optimization algorithm (BMEPO) for optimizing feature selection. Comparative experiments demonstrate that BMEPO exhibits stronger competitiveness in feature selection quality and classification performance compared to advanced feature selection algorithms. Finally, to further enhance the classification performance of defect prediction, a heterogeneous data stacking ensemble learning algorithm (HEDSE) based on feature selection is proposed. Experimental evaluations on 16 open-source software defect datasets indicate that the proposed HEDSE outperforms existing methods, providing a novel and effective solution for software defect prediction. The proposed approaches in this study hold significant practical value, particularly in improving software quality, optimizing testing resource allocation, and reducing maintenance costs, offering broad potential for application in real-world software engineering scenarios.