Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming with Java

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/object-oriented-programming-with-java

Introduction

### Course Review: Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming with Java #### Overview If you’re considering delving into the world of Java programming, the **Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming with Java** course on Coursera is an excellent starting point. As the second course in the Core Java Specialization, it sets the stage for understanding fundamental object-oriented principles and applying them within Java. This course promises to equip you with the essential skills needed to develop simple Java classes while highlighting key object-oriented principles such as encapsulation. By the end of the course, you'll be ready to create functional Java programs utilizing strings, advanced mathematical functions, and more. #### Course Content and Syllabus The curriculum is thoughtfully structured into several modules, each focusing on critical aspects of object-oriented programming: 1. **Classes and Objects**: This module acts as a springboard into OO principles, focusing on the core concepts of classes, objects, attributes, and methods. You'll learn why these concepts are the backbone of Java programming, along with the conventions of the JavaBeans Specification, which standardizes the way Java objects are handled. 2. **Creating Classes**: Transitioning from theory to practice, this module dives deeper into class creation. You’ll explore how to organize classes into packages and get hands-on experience with attributes, methods, access modifiers, and constructors. The focus here is on understanding the intricacies of class design and preparing your code for complex applications. 3. **Using Java Objects**: Here, the course briefly revisits the topic of objects. It walks you through the creation of objects with the “new” keyword and clarifies the difference between type and class. This insight deepens your understanding of object instantiation and the role of Java Virtual Machine (JVM) in this process. 4. **Namespaces and Java Libraries**: This module emphasizes the importance of Java packages and namespaces. You'll learn how to declare and use packages, resolve name collisions, and import classes effectively. Additionally, it introduces you to the functional elements of some essential Java classes: `String`, `StringBuffer`, `StringBuilder`, and `Math`. #### Recommendations **Why Should You Enroll?** - **Structured Learning**: The modular format allows for a paced approach to learning, helping to build your knowledge incrementally while ensuring a solid understanding of each concept before moving forward. - **Hands-On Practice**: Each module involves practical programming exercises that reinforce the theoretical knowledge you gain. This hands-on aspect enables you to apply what you’ve learned, making the transition from theory to application smooth and efficient. - **Expert Instruction**: The course benefits from experienced instructors who guide you through the complexities of Java and object-oriented programming, ensuring that you not only learn how to code but also understand why certain approaches are taken. - **Community Support**: As part of the Coursera platform, you’ll have access to a community of learners and instructors ready to help with questions, share best practices, and offer insights that enrich the learning experience. #### Conclusion In summary, **Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming with Java** is a well-rounded course that serves as a powerful toolkit for anyone looking to become proficient in Java. Whether you're a complete novice or someone looking to refine your existing programming skills, this course will enhance your understanding of object-oriented principles, ensuring you're well-equipped to tackle more advanced Java topics in the future. Don't hesitate to enroll and take your first step into the expansive world of Java programming!

Syllabus

Classes and Objects

In this module, we discuss why we are using Object-Oriented Programming, and introduce the concepts in Java of Classes, Objects, Attributes, and Methods. Along with that, we'll discuss some of the conventions of the JavaBeans Specification, and make use of them in our code.

In this module, we'll go into more detail on creating classes in Java, and how to organize classes into packages. We'll cover attributes (instance and class variables), methods, access modifiers, parameters, variable length argument lists, local variables, constants, constructors, overloaded methods, and more.

In this relatively short module, having discussed, in more detail, creating classes, we'll briefly turn our attention back to objects. How to create them with the "new" keyword, the difference between type and class (something we'll revisit often), and (conceptually) what happens in a JVM when we create a new object.

In this module, we'll look more closely at the use of Java packages. How we declare our package; the implications of being in a package; why packages are important; how we import classes from other packages; what import does for us; how we come up with our own, unique, package name by following the specified rules; how to resolve name collisions. Finally, we will concluding by looking at four specific Java classes: String, StringBuffer, StringBuilder and Math.