Final answer:
Improved development methods raising software quality typically lead to a reduction in testing time, as higher quality often results in fewer defects.
Step-by-step explanation:
Increasing the quality of software through better development methods is generally considered to have a positive impact in reducing the time needed for testing phases. However, this is only true to a certain extent. While higher quality code should result in fewer defects and less complex troubleshooting, it doesn't necessarily result in a proportional reduction of test time due to other factors such as the scope of the testing phase, the complexity of the software, and the quality of the test cases themselves.
That said, a common outcome of improving development methods and thereby software quality is indeed a likely reduction in the time testers spend on identifying and fixing defects, since there should be fewer issues to address. Therefore, the most probable answer to the student's question is A. Reducing test time.