Java for Android

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/java-for-android

Introduction

### Course Review: Java for Android on Coursera In the realm of mobile app development, Java has established itself as a cornerstone for programming, especially within the Android ecosystem. The **Java for Android** course on Coursera provides an extensive, well-structured introduction to using Java specifically for Android app development. This Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) is ideal for beginners and even those with some programming experience looking to bridge the gap between Java and Android development. #### Course Overview The **Java for Android** course offers a comprehensive curriculum that spans over eight modules. Each module is crafted to build upon the previous one, systematically introducing key concepts and practices essential for developing Android applications using Java. The course emphasizes understanding Java's core features and its applications for Android development, which is vital as Android remains the leading platform for mobile app deployment. #### Module Breakdown 1. **MOOC Overview**: This introductory module sets the stage for the learning journey ahead. It discusses prerequisites, expected workload, and learning strategies, ensuring learners are well-prepared to tackle the content. The introduction to object-oriented programming concepts crucial for Android development is particularly helpful. 2. **Introduction to Android Studio**: Here, learners get their hands dirty by installing Android Studio— the official integrated development environment (IDE) for Android app development. This module emphasizes creating a simple app using foundational Java and Android features, which builds confidence for novice developers. 3. **Writing a Simple Android App Using Basic Java Features**: This module dives deeper into practical application. Learners will write a basic Android application using Java's primitive data types. This fundamental step is essential in grasping how to manipulate and display data in an app. 4. **Control Flow**: Understanding control flow is critical in programming. This module covers Java’s looping constructs and conditional statements, laying the groundwork for logical decision-making and sequential processing in app design. 5. **Structured Data**: Data handling is another essential skill—this module introduces learners to Java’s built-in data structures and the Java Collections Framework, including ArrayList and HashMap. Mastering these concepts will significantly enhance an app’s functionality and user experience. 6. **Classes and Interfaces**: Diving into advanced Java concepts, learners explore classes, interfaces, and the importance of exception handling. This module enables learners to structure their code better and understand Object-Oriented Programming in more depth. 7. **Inheritance and Polymorphism**: Building on the previous module, this section covers the concepts of inheritance and polymorphism, which are crucial for efficient code reuse and the development of more complex applications. 8. **Android Calculator App Mini-Project Assignment**: In the final module, learners apply their acquired knowledge to create a functional Android calculator app. This hands-on project synthesizes learning and gives students a tangible outcome to showcase their newly acquired skills. #### Course Recommendations **Java for Android** is highly recommended for: - **Beginners** with little to no programming experience who wish to learn Java in the context of Android app development. - **Intermediate programmers** wanting to deepen their knowledge of Java specifically for Android. - **Professionals** looking to switch to mobile app development or those enhancing their technical skills. #### Conclusion Overall, the **Java for Android** course on Coursera stands out as an excellent resource for anyone looking to master Java programming within the context of mobile app development. The logical progression of modules ensures that concepts are well-understood before advancing, making it suitable for a wide audience. With engaging content, practical assignments, and a focus on real-world applications, this MOOC is exceptionally valuable. Whether you're looking to start a career in mobile app development or enhance your programming toolkit, this course will equip you with the necessary skills to succeed.

Syllabus

Module 1: MOOC Overview

Module 1 summarizes the organization of the MOOC and the topics it covers. It also discusses the MOOC prerequisites, workload, and learning strategies needed to complete the MOOC successfully. It then presents an overview of key features in the Java language, outlining its support for object-oriented programming concepts that guide the development of Android apps.

Module 2 provides an overview of Android Studio, explaining how to install it and apply it to develop a simple app using basic Java and Android features presented in this MOOC.

Module 3 shows how to write a simple Android app that defines variables using primitive Java data types, shows how to assign values to those variables, and output them to the Android display using Java classes and methods.

Module 4 covers Java’s looping constructs (e.g., for loops, while loops, and do/while loops), as well as its conditional statements (e.g., if/else statements).

Module 5 provides more detail on common data structures supported by Java, including built-in arrays, as well as core classes in the Java Collections Framework, such as ArrayList and HashMap.

Module 6 covers Java classes and interfaces, focusing on data types, fields, methods, generic parameters, and exceptions.

Module 7 examines Java's inheritance and polymorphism features (e.g., extending classes and virtual methods).

Module 8 guides learners through the creation of an Android app that implements a simple calculator, which provides features for adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing numbers input by various means (e.g., via numbers and buttons on the Android user interface).