AP Computer Science A: Java Programming Classes and Objects from edX

In this computer science course, you will learn the basics of programming in the Java language, and cover topics relevant to the AP Computer Science A course and exam.

This course will cover:

classes
objects and object-oriented design
fields and visibility
constructors, mutators and accessor methods
encapsulation
interfaces
the List interface
method overriding

This course is for anyone interested in taking a first-level computer-programming course, particularly those who attend a school that does not provide a similar class.

No previous programming knowledge is needed, but it is recommended that learners be comfortable with the topics addressed in AP Computer Science A: Java Programming and AP Computer Science A: Java Programming Data Structures and Loops.

We are looking forward to helping you explore this exciting new world!

What you'll learn

classes
objects and object-oriented design
fields and visibility
constructors, mutators and accessor methods
encapsulation
interfaces
the List interface
method overriding

What's inside

Learning objectives

Classes
Objects and object-oriented design
Fields and visibility
Constructors, mutators and accessor methods

Encapsulation
Interfaces
The list interface
Method overriding

Classes
Objects and object-oriented design
Fields and visibility
Constructors, mutators and accessor methods
Encapsulation
Interfaces
The list interface
Method overriding

Syllabus

Unit Name or Timeframe: Methods and Classes (3 weeks)

Object-oriented design and encapsulation

Top-down development and functional decomposition

State and behavior

Fields and visibility

Methods and parameters

Calling methods and passing parameters by-value and by-reference

Constructors and instantiation

The static keyword

Scope

Method overloading

Encapsulation

Accessors and mutators

Immutable objects

Unit Name or Timeframe: Interfaces (1 week)

Interfaces and abstraction

Interface implementation

Reference types

List interface and iterators

Comparable interface

Unit Name or Timeframe: Inheritance (2 weeks)

Inheritance and the Object class

Public and private data and methods

The super, this and null references

Encapsulation and information hiding

Inheritance using extends, recognizing single-inheritance

Equality vs identity

has-a vs is-a relationships involving inheritance and aggregation

Method overriding

The instanceof operator

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Provides comprehensive insights into the fundamentals of programming, suitable for individuals seeking a foundational understanding of Java

Well-structured learning path designed for individuals preparing for the AP Computer Science A exam, making it highly relevant for students aiming to excel in the exam

Imparts foundational Java programming skills, empowering learners to develop a solid groundwork in object-oriented programming

Instructors boast extensive expertise and recognition in the field of computer science, ensuring the delivery of high-quality instruction

Course content aligns with industry standards and best practices, preparing learners for real-world Java programming applications

Career center

Learners who complete AP Computer Science A: Java Programming Classes and Objects will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Computer Programmer

A Computer Programmer writes and tests code for software applications. This course can help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You will also learn how to work with programming languages and development tools.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Web Developer

A Web Developer creates and maintains websites and web applications. This course can help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You will also learn how to work with web development tools and frameworks.

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Software Engineer

A Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software systems. This course can help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You will also learn how to work with software development tools and methodologies.

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Java Developer

A Java Developer is responsible for creating and maintaining software applications using the Java programming language. This course can help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You will also learn how to work with Java libraries and frameworks.

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Data Analyst

A Data Analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets data to identify trends and patterns. This course can help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You will also learn how to work with data analysis tools and techniques.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Database Administrator

A Database Administrator manages and maintains databases. This course can help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You will also learn how to work with database management systems and tools.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Systems Analyst

A Systems Analyst designs, develops, and implements computer systems. This course can help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You will also learn how to work with systems analysis and design tools and techniques.

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Security Analyst

A Security Analyst protects computer systems and networks from unauthorized access and attacks. This course can help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You will also learn how to work with security analysis and monitoring tools and techniques.

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Network Administrator

A Network Administrator manages and maintains computer networks. This course can help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You will also learn how to work with network administration tools and techniques.

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IT Manager

An IT Manager plans, organizes, and directs the activities of an IT department. This course can help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You will also learn how to manage IT resources and personnel.

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Business Analyst

A Business Analyst analyzes business processes and systems to identify opportunities for improvement. This course may help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You may also learn how to work with business analysis tools and techniques.

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Project Manager

A Project Manager plans, organizes, and directs the activities of a project. This course may help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You may also learn how to manage project resources and personnel.

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Technical Writer

A Technical Writer creates and maintains technical documentation for software and hardware products. This course may help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You may also learn how to write and edit technical documentation.

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User Experience Designer

A User Experience Designer designs the user interface for software and hardware products. This course may help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You may also learn how to design and evaluate user interfaces.

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Computer Support Specialist

A Computer Support Specialist provides technical support to users of computers and software. This course may help you to develop the skills needed for this role, such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You may also learn how to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.

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AP Computer Science A

Java Programming Classes and Objects