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Building Objects in C

In this course, learn how Python was built in C and, by extension, languages like Java and JavaScript. Review object-oriented programming syntax from several languages and use your knowledge of C to build a library that integrates high-level data structures like strings, lists, and dictionaries. Learn how to make your program run as efficiently as possible by covering memory allocation, de-allocation, and object lifecycle.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Object Oriented Programming: History

Part 1: Object Oriented Programming

Part 2: Object Oriented Programming

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Provides experience building a library that integrates high-level data structures like strings, lists, and dictionaries through hands-on labs and interactive materials, which helps learners apply theoretical knowledge to real-world projects

Emphasizes memory allocation, de-allocation, and object lifecycle management, which helps learners develop foundational programming skills

Covers object-oriented programming concepts such as encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism, which are essential for software development

Taught by Charles Russell Severance, who is known for their expertise in programming languages and software development and has multiple patents in the field of compilers and computer architecture

Explores the relationship between Python, C, Java, and JavaScript, which helps learners understand the underlying principles and similarities of programming languages

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Reviews summary

Building high-level objects in c

According to students, this course offers a deep dive into C internals, providing a unique perspective on how languages like Python, Java, and JavaScript are built. Learners appreciate the detailed exploration of memory management and object lifecycle, finding the content both challenging and highly rewarding. While it builds a strong theoretical foundation, the emphasis on practical library building through assignments is a standout feature. Prospective students should note that a solid C proficiency is a prerequisite, which can be a potential hurdle for those less experienced, though the expert instructor makes complex topics more accessible.

Instructor displays profound knowledge and passion.

"The instructor's deep knowledge of C and systems programming shines through every lecture."

"I was impressed by how well the complex topics were explained, even if sometimes quickly."

"Their enthusiasm for the subject made the difficult concepts more engaging."

Hands-on application through building a C library.

"The assignments involving building a library for data structures were incredibly practical."

"I appreciated the focus on creating my own high-level types from scratch in C."

"It truly cemented my understanding of how to implement complex structures efficiently."

Rigorous but offers significant learning for dedicated students.

"This course was incredibly challenging, but the knowledge I gained was absolutely worth the effort."

"Be prepared to spend a lot of time debugging and really thinking through the concepts."

"I found it tough, especially the assignments, but my understanding of C is now on another level."

Connects C foundations to object-oriented principles.

"Understanding how objects are built in C truly demystifies OOP in Java and Python for me."

"The course brilliantly showed the underlying mechanics of objects, lists, and dictionaries."

"It was fascinating to see the historical context of OOP and its implementation in C."

Explores memory allocation and object lifecycle in C.

"I finally understand how languages like Python manage memory because of this course."

"The detailed explanations of `malloc`, `free`, and object reference counting were invaluable."

"It provided a clear understanding of the low-level mechanisms behind high-level data structures."

Assumes a solid C foundation, a potential barrier for some.

"I struggled a bit because I didn't have strong enough C fundamentals going in."

"The pace was very fast if you're not already comfortable with pointers and memory in C."

"Wish there was a clearer prerequisite for C experience; it's not for pure beginners."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Building Objects in C with these activities:

Review Python Basics

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Refreshes fundamental Python concepts to ensure a solid foundation for building on in this course.

Browse courses on Python Basics

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Review variables, data types and basic operators
Revisit conditional statements and loops
Recall functions, modules and classes

Head First Python

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Provides a comprehensive and engaging introduction to Python concepts, fostering a deeper understanding of the language.

View Head First Python: A Learner's Guide to the... on Amazon

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Read through the chapters, focusing on key concepts and examples
Complete the practice exercises and quizzes to reinforce understanding
Discuss the book's content with peers or a mentor to clarify concepts

Python Study Group

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Fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing by engaging with peers, promoting a deeper understanding of Python concepts.

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Join or start a Python study group with fellow learners
Discuss course material, share resources, and work together on projects
Present findings and lead discussions to reinforce understanding

Six other activities

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CodinGame Python Challenges

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Provides practice solving Python coding challenges to reinforce concepts and improve problem-solving skills.

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Register on the CodinGame platform
Select the Python track and start solving challenges
Review solutions and learn from others' approaches

HackerRank Python Challenges

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Encourages problem-solving and algorithm design skills by participating in competitive coding challenges.

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Register on the HackerRank platform
Select Python-based challenges and solve them efficiently
Analyze solutions and learn from the approaches of others

Python Workshop: Data Analysis with Pandas

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Enhances learners' understanding of data manipulation and analysis using the Pandas library, expanding their practical skills.

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Attend a workshop focused on using Pandas for data analysis
Follow along with the instructor and complete hands-on exercises
Discuss and ask questions to clarify concepts and techniques

Data Structures and Algorithms in Python

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Explores advanced data structures and algorithms in Python, enhancing understanding of how to efficiently manage and process data.

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Follow tutorials on implementing linked lists, stacks and queues in Python
Practice implementing basic sorting and searching algorithms (e.g., bubble sort, binary search)
Explore more advanced algorithms like recursion, dynamic programming or graph search

Volunteer as a Python Tutor

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Provides an opportunity to reinforce learning by helping others, while also developing communication and teaching skills.

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Sign up as a tutor on platforms like Codecademy or HackerRank
Answer questions and provide guidance to students learning Python
Engage in discussions and share knowledge with other tutors

Python Mini-Project

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Challenges learners to apply Python skills by building a small project, fostering creativity and problem-solving abilities.

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Identify a simple problem or task that can be solved using Python
Design and implement the solution, including functions, classes and data structures
Test and debug the code to ensure it meets requirements
Write documentation or a README file explaining the project

Career center

Learners who complete Building Objects in C will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Systems Software Developer

Systems Software Developers design, develop, and maintain the operating systems and other software that runs on computers and other devices. Understanding the concepts in this course can help you build a foundation for your career as a systems software developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Software Developer

Software Developer

Software Developers design, build, and maintain the software applications that we use on computers, phones, and other devices. Taking this course can help you build a strong foundation in programming and software development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Mobile Applications Developer

Mobile Applications Developers design, develop, and maintain the applications that we use on our phones and tablets. Mobile apps have become essential for many businesses, and the demand for Mobile Applications Developers is high. This course can help you build a strong foundation for a career in mobile application development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mobile Applications Developer

Desktop Applications Developer

Desktop Applications Developers design, develop, and maintain computer applications that run on desktop computers. Many companies rely on software tools that are specifically designed for their industry. Building a foundation in programming can help you prepare for a career as a Desktop Applications Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Desktop Applications Developer

Database Developer

Database Developers design, develop, and maintain the databases that store and organize data for organizations. Databases are used by nearly every business, and the demand for Database Developers is high. This course can help you learn the skills needed to design and develop databases.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Developer

Robotics Engineer

Robotics Engineers design, develop, and maintain the robots that are used in a variety of applications, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and space exploration. Robotics is a rapidly growing field, and the demand for Robotics Engineers is high. This course can help you build a strong foundation in programming, mathematics, and physics, which are essential skills for Robotics Engineers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Robotics Engineer

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts plan and carry out security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. They research and analyze advanced security topics and threats to design and implement safeguards against unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction of systems and networks. Having a strong foundation in C programming is important for a career in Information Security. This course can help build the skills necessary to understand how computer systems work and how to identify and prevent security risks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Web Developer

Web Developers create and maintain websites. They work with both the design and the code that makes up a website, and many web developers design and program the user interface that people interact with. Understanding the concepts in this course can help you build a foundation for your career as a web developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Artificial Intelligence Engineers design, develop, and maintain the AI systems that are used in a variety of applications, including self-driving cars, facial recognition software, and natural language processing. Artificial Intelligence is a rapidly growing field, and the demand for AI Engineers is high. This course can help you build a strong foundation in programming and AI, which are essential skills for AI Engineers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Artificial Intelligence Engineer

embedded systems developer

Embedded Systems Developers design, develop, and maintain the software that runs on embedded devices. Embedded devices are small computers that are used in a variety of applications, such as cars, medical devices, and industrial equipment. This course can help you learn the programming and hardware skills that are needed to become a successful Embedded Systems Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for embedded systems developer

Video Game Developer

Video Game Developers design, develop, and maintain the video games that we play on computers, phones, and other devices. Video game development is a complex and challenging field, but it can also be very rewarding. This course can help you learn the programming, math, and physics skills that are needed to become a successful Video Game Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Video Game Developer

Data Scientist

Data Scientists use data to solve business problems. They collect, clean, and analyze data to identify trends and patterns. Many data scientists also write code to develop data-driven applications. This course can help you build a strong foundation in programming and data analysis, which are essential skills for Data Scientists.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers design, develop, and maintain the machine learning models that power many of the applications we use today. Machine learning is a rapidly growing field, and the demand for Machine Learning Engineers is high. This course can help you build a strong foundation in programming and machine learning, which are essential skills for Machine Learning Engineers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer Systems Analysts study how computer systems are used to solve business problems. They can work with business professionals to design solutions that improve efficiency or customer service. Some of them exclusively work on software systems and make sure those systems are running well. The knowledge you gain in this course can help you build the object-oriented programming foundation needed to excel as a Computer Systems Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Systems Analyst

Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers build, write, and maintain software programs that run on computers, phones, tablets, and other devices. Building software is complex and requires in depth knowledge of how different computer systems communicate with each other. Knowledge you gain in this course can help you build a foundation for your career as a computer programmer. A degree in Computer Science is typical for most roles, but not always required.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Reading list

We've selected 15 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Building Objects in C.

The Art of Computer Programming

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Monumental work on computer science, covering a wide range of topics including algorithms, data structures, and programming techniques. It valuable resource for gaining a deeper understanding of the theoretical foundations of object-oriented programming.

Art of Computer Programming, The: Combinatorial...

Hardcover

$$$

Design Patterns

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Classic reference on design patterns, providing a systematic catalog of proven solutions to common software design problems. It valuable resource for understanding and applying design patterns in object-oriented programming.

Building Objects in C

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What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Building high-level objects in c

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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