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Introduction to Java

Guido Chiesa

If you want to get started in the world of software development, this course will help you take the first steps. You will learn to make your first programs using one of the most popular languages, in force for years and with great demand in the market: Java. The course will present you with a brief introduction to object-oriented programming that will help you delve deeper into the topic later. You will learn how to code Java and how to use one of the most popular development environments, Eclipse. The course will guide you so that, with both tools, you can begin to think about how to solve problems using Java programs.

The objectives of the course are:

- Understand what a programming language is and what object-oriented programming is.

- Know the Java language, its syntax, its way of working and its particularities.

- Learn to use an integrated development environment, a very useful tool that works for Java and any other language.

- Gain a basic understanding of algorithms and how to use them to solve problems.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Java

This week we will make a gradual introduction to Java, its operation and use.

Programming in Java

This week we will start looking at Java code itself. We will learn what an IDE is and how to use it to write Java code.

Troubleshooting with Java. Algorithms. Collections

This week we will continue to look at Java code. We will learn the basic concepts of algorithms and the basic data structures we have: arrays and collections.

Programming in Java. Input/output flows. Error handling

This week we will continue to delve deeper into Java coding. We will look at input and output to disk and other media. We will learn how to handle possible errors arising from input and output.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces basic programming concepts and the basics of object-oriented programming, establishing a foundation for further learning in the field

Utilizes the popular and widely used Java language, which offers numerous opportunities for career development and industry applications

Provides hands-on experience through the use of Eclipse, an industry-standard development environment, enhancing practical skills

Covers essential topics in algorithms and data structures, equipping learners with problem-solving techniques

Requires no prior coding experience, making it accessible to beginners seeking an introduction to programming

Offers a structured and progressive approach to learning, starting with the fundamentals and gradually building upon them

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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 with these activities:

Revise Java syntax

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Refresh your memory on Java syntax to strengthen your foundation before starting the course.

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Review online tutorials or documentation on Java syntax.
Complete practice exercises on basic Java syntax.

Follow Java tutorials for beginners

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Enhance your understanding by following guided tutorials that cover Java fundamentals.

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Find reputable online resources or platforms that offer Java tutorials for beginners.
Select tutorials that cover topics like data types, variables, operators, and control flow.
Work through the tutorials, following the instructions and completing the exercises.

Practice Java coding exercises

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Solidify your Java skills by practicing coding exercises.

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Find online platforms or resources that provide Java coding exercises.
Choose exercises that cover a range of topics, from basic syntax to more advanced concepts.
Solve the exercises, debug your code, and learn from your mistakes.

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Build a simple Java application

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Apply your Java knowledge to create a functioning application, reinforcing your learning.

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Identify a simple problem or task that you can solve with a Java application.
Design the application's logic and user interface.
Write the Java code to implement the application's functionality.
Test and debug the application to ensure it works correctly.

Participate in Java coding competitions

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Challenge yourself and test your Java abilities in a competitive environment.

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Find online or local Java coding competitions that align with your skill level.
Review the competition rules and requirements.
Prepare for the competition by practicing and refining your Java skills.
Participate in the competition and strive to solve the coding challenges efficiently.

Contribute to open-source Java projects

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Gain practical experience and connect with the Java community by contributing to open-source projects.

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Identify open-source Java projects that align with your interests and skills.
Review the project documentation and codebase to understand the project's goals and structure.
Identify areas where you can contribute, such as bug fixes, feature enhancements, or documentation improvements.
Submit pull requests with your contributions and engage with the project maintainers.

Mentor junior Java programmers

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Strengthen your understanding of Java concepts and develop your leadership skills by mentoring others.

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Identify opportunities to mentor junior Java programmers, such as through online forums or local coding communities.
Prepare materials and resources to support your mentees' learning.
Provide guidance and support to your mentees, answering their questions and reviewing their code.
Encourage your mentees to ask questions, share their progress, and reflect on their learning.

Career center

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

Java Developer

Java Developers are in high demand due to the popularity of Java as a programming language. This course provides a solid foundation in Java, including its syntax, object-oriented programming concepts, and use of an integrated development environment. By taking this course, you will gain the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career as a Java Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Java Developer

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. Java is one of the most popular programming languages used in software development, so this course can help you build a strong foundation for a career as a Software Engineer. You will learn how to write Java code, use an integrated development environment, and solve problems using algorithms.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Web Developer

Web Developers create and maintain websites. Java is commonly used for web development, especially for developing server-side applications. This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to build a foundation for a career as a Web Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses make informed decisions. Java is increasingly used for data analysis, so this course can provide you with a strong foundation for a career as a Data Analyst. You will learn how to use Java to manipulate and analyze data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts design and implement computer systems. Java is commonly used for developing enterprise-level systems, so this course can help you build a foundation for a career as a Systems Analyst. You will learn how to use Java to design and develop software solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

IT Specialist

IT Specialists provide technical support and guidance to businesses. Java is a popular programming language used in many different industries, so this course can provide you with a strong foundation for a career as an IT Specialist. You will learn how to troubleshoot Java code and use integrated development environments.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Specialist

Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers write and maintain code for software applications. Java is one of the most popular programming languages used in software development, so this course can provide you with a strong foundation for a career as a Computer Programmer. You will learn how to write Java code and use an integrated development environment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Software Tester

Software Testers ensure that software applications are working correctly. Java is a popular programming language used in software development, so this course can provide you with a strong foundation for a career as a Software Tester. You will learn how to test Java code and identify defects.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create documentation for software applications. Java is a popular programming language used in software development, so this course can provide you with a strong foundation for a career as a Technical Writer. You will learn how to write clear and concise documentation for Java code.

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Project Manager

Project Managers oversee the development of software applications. Java is a popular programming language used in software development, so this course can provide you with a strong foundation for a career as a Project Manager. You will learn how to manage Java projects and ensure their successful completion.

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Database Administrator

Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. Java is commonly used for developing database applications, so this course can provide you with a strong foundation for a career as a Database Administrator. You will learn how to use Java to access and manipulate data in databases.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Network Administrator

Network Administrators manage and maintain computer networks. Java is sometimes used for developing network applications, so this course may be helpful for a career as a Network Administrator. You will learn how to use Java to develop network applications and troubleshoot network issues.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts protect computer systems and networks from security breaches. Java is sometimes used for developing security applications, so this course may be helpful for a career as an Information Security Analyst. You will learn how to use Java to develop security applications and identify security vulnerabilities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Quality Assurance Analyst

Quality Assurance Analysts ensure that software applications meet quality standards. Java is a popular programming language used in software development, so this course may be helpful for a career as a Quality Assurance Analyst. You will learn how to test Java code and identify defects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst

Business Analyst

Business Analysts analyze business processes and identify opportunities for improvement. Java is sometimes used for developing business applications, so this course may be helpful for a career as a Business Analyst. You will learn how to use Java to develop business applications and identify opportunities for process improvement.

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Reading list

We've selected 12 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 Introduction to Java.

Effective Java (3rd Edition)

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Must-read for any Java programmer. It provides practical advice on how to write effective Java code.

Introduction to Java

What's inside

Syllabus

Good to know

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Activities

Career center

Reading list

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