Introduction to Java and Object-Oriented Programming from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1 : Introduction to Java, Classes, & Eclipse

Welcome to Java! This first module provides an introduction to the Java language and object-oriented programming. It includes an overview of Java syntax, in particular, how it differs from a language like Python. Topics will include variables and data types, loops and conditionals, printing to the console, scanning for user input, and code documentation. This module also explains the structure and inner-workings of a Java class and teaches you how to define your own custom classes and methods.

Module 2 : Unit Testing, Arrays, & ArrayLists

In this module, you will be taught to test your code to get it working. The best way to do this is to write a set of unit tests that you can run against your program, at any time. In this module, we'll learn how to do unit testing in Java, and why we want to do it. We’ll also learn all about Java Arrays, which are collections of items, and ArrayLists, which are kind of like arrays, but much more flexible. These work just like lists in Python. ArrayLists are part of Java’s larger Collections Framework, which we’ll continue to reference throughout this course.

Module 3 : Static Variables, Methods, & Polymorphism Using Overloading

So far, we’ve been defining variables as instance variables in our Java classes. Instance variables are just variables defined inside a class, and every instance of a class can have a different value for an instance variable. In this module, we’ll look at defining static variables in our Java classes. Static variables are also defined as variables inside a class, but with the keyword 'static'. Static variables have the same value for every instance of a class. In fact, you don’t even need to create an instance of a class to use a static variable! We’ll also look at static methods. And just like static variables, you don’t need to create an instance of a class to use, or call, a static method. In this module, we’re also going to introduce polymorphism, which refers to overloading and overriding. We’ll focus on overloading, which is having two or more methods in the same class, with the same name.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Strengthens intermediate learners in their background knowledge of core Java concepts, including data structures and object-oriented programming

Builds a strong foundation for beginners in Java programming and object-oriented programming, introducing the basics of both topics

Introduces learners to development best practices like test-driven development, using unit testing, and coding documentation

Reviews summary

Highly rated introduction to java course

Learners say this largely positive course is an engaging introduction to Java for beginners. The instructor provides detailed and easy-to-understand instructions, and the coding demonstrations help learners follow along and learn effectively. Assignments are challenging but have helped learners develop a strong foundation in Java. However, a few learners have experienced difficulties with the autograders and testing environment, but overall, this course has received largely positive reviews.

Brandon's lectures are clear and easy to understand.

"Great Lectures from Brandon."

"The lecturer was excellent."

"The course is very good"

Coding demonstration videos are engaging and help learners code along.

"The coding demonstration videos are extremely helpful."

"Coding practice is good to learn Java programming grammer and it is very fun."

"It is a great practical introduction course with challenging assignments."

Assignments are challenging but enhance learning.

"Detailed and easy to understand instructions."

"It is a great practical introduction course with challenging assignments."

"I learned a lot! Thanks!"

Some learners found the course difficult for beginners.

"Although this is a supposed to be an intro course to Java, I personally feel like the fast pace doesn't help laying a strong foundation and I felt confused about concepts while doing the exercises and had to do additional research."

"If you know Java or are familiar with programming you might be fine, but if you don't know programming and expect to learn and understand what you are being taught than I would avoid this course and teacher."

Some learners have experienced bugs with the autograders.

"The autograders have several bugs."

"Codio gave me a lot of issues with saying I had errors on lines of codes that were provided in the assignment."

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 Introduction to Java and Object-Oriented Programming with these activities:

Create a study guide for Java

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Organize and consolidate your notes, assignments, and other materials to create a comprehensive study guide.

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Gather all relevant materials.
Summarize key concepts and definitions.
Highlight important formulas and code snippets.
Review your study guide regularly.

Watch Java tutorials on YouTube

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Expand your knowledge by watching video tutorials on topics covered in the course.

Browse courses on YouTube

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Search for Java tutorials on YouTube.
Watch tutorials on topics you are interested in or struggling with.

Join a Java study group

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Engage with other students and discuss Java concepts to deepen your understanding and identify areas for improvement.

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Find a study group on campus or online.
Attend study group meetings regularly.
Participate in discussions and ask questions.

Three other activities

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Read Head First Java

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Reinforce your understanding of Java syntax and object-oriented programming by reading a popular introductory book.

View Head First Java: A Brain-Friendly Guide on Amazon

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Purchase the book or borrow it from the library.
Read the chapters in order, taking notes on any unfamiliar concepts.
Complete the exercises at the end of each chapter.

Solve Java coding challenges on LeetCode

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Enhance your problem-solving and coding skills by tackling Java coding challenges on LeetCode.

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Create a LeetCode account.
Select a difficulty level and start solving problems.
Review your solutions and learn from your mistakes.

Create a Java tutorial for beginners

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Solidify your understanding of Java by creating a tutorial that explains the basics to beginners.

Browse courses on OOP

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Outline the key concepts you want to cover.
Write clear and concise explanations.
Include code examples and exercises.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Java and Object-Oriented Programming will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Java Developer

The Java Developer is an essential role in many industries, including finance, healthcare, and e-commerce. These developers specialize in the Java programming language, which is used to build a variety of applications, including mobile apps and web services. Because Java is so widely used, the Java Developer market is always in demand and this course is a great way to prepare for a career as one. By learning the basics of Java programming including data structures, loops, and conditionals, testing methods, and more, you will build the foundation for a successful career as an entry-level Java Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Java Developer

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. They can work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. Object-oriented programming (OOP) is one of the core foundations of software engineering and this course will help you master the key concepts of OOP, a critical skill for a Software Engineer. In this course, you will also learn how to create custom classes and methods and how to test code, skills that are essential to success as a Software Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Web Developer

Web Developers are responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of websites and web applications. They must be proficient in a variety of programming languages, including Java. This course will help you master the basics of Java programming, including data structures, loops, and conditionals, testing methods, and more, which will provide you with a strong foundation for a career as a Web Developer.

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Mobile Developer

Mobile Developers are responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of mobile applications. They must be proficient in a variety of programming languages, including Java. This course will help you master the basics of Java programming and provide you with the foundation needed to succeed as a Mobile Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mobile Developer

Database Administrator

Database Administrators are responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of databases. They must be proficient in a variety of programming languages, including Java. This course will help you master the basics of Java programming and provide you with the foundation needed to succeed as a Database Administrator.

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Data Scientist

Data Scientists use data to solve problems and make predictions. They must be proficient in a variety of programming languages, including Java. The skills you will learn in this course will build a foundation for a career as a Data Scientist, as this role requires the ability to test code, use data structures, and understand key OOP concepts.

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Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts are responsible for the analysis, design, and implementation of computer systems. They must be proficient in a variety of programming languages, including Java. This course will help you master the basics of Java programming, including data structures, loops, and conditionals, testing methods, and more, which will provide you with a foundation for a successful career as a Systems Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers use programming languages to create software applications. They must be proficient in a variety of programming languages, including Java. This course will help you master the basics of Java programming, including data structures, loops, and conditionals, testing methods, and more, which will provide you with a foundation for a career as a Computer Programmer.

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Information Technology Specialist

Information Technology Specialists provide technical support to users of computer systems. They must be proficient in a variety of programming languages, including Java. The skills learned in this course will provide you with a strong foundation for a career as an Information Technology Specialist.

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Software Tester

Software Testers are responsible for testing software applications to ensure that they are free of defects. They must be proficient in a variety of programming languages, including Java. This course will help you master the basics of Java programming, including data structures, loops, and conditionals, testing methods, and more, which will provide you with a strong foundation for a career as a Software Tester.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create documentation for software applications and other technical products. They must be proficient in a variety of programming languages, including Java. This course will help you master the basics of Java programming, including data structures, loops, and conditionals, testing methods, and more, which will provide you with a foundation for a career as a Technical Writer.

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Project Manager

Project Managers are responsible for the planning, execution, and completion of projects. They must be proficient in a variety of programming languages, including Java. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Project Manager, as it will provide you with a foundation in the basics of Java programming.

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Product Manager

Product Managers are responsible for the planning, development, and marketing of software products. They must be proficient in a variety of programming languages, including Java. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Product Manager, as it will provide you with a foundation in the basics of Java programming.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts are responsible for the analysis and design of business processes. They must be proficient in a variety of programming languages, including Java. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Business Analyst, as it will provide you with a foundation in the basics of Java programming.

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Quality Assurance Analyst

Quality Assurance Analysts are responsible for the testing and validation of software products. They must be proficient in a variety of programming languages, including Java. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Quality Assurance Analyst, as it will provide you with a foundation in the basics of Java programming.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst