Getting Started
Learning a new programming language can seem intimidating if
you are anything like me. However, as with anything new, it is vital to keep an
open mind, take your time, and, most importantly, ask questions and research to
find the necessary information. To start your journey with Java, you will need
to install it on your computer or laptop, along with an IDE (Integrated
Development Environment) to write your code or a code editor. A simple internet
search will provide information about many options available. I use a code
editor called Visual Studio Code. I chose VSCode because I found it easy to use
while learning another programming language, as it provides tips and alerts you
of code errors. Below are links to resources that helped me get started with
Java. The third link provides information on writing and running a “HelloWorld”
program. The program is simple and allows visibility to basic Java syntax to
ensure you are on the right track. Hopefully, the below resources will be of
help to you as well.
Object-Oriented Programming
Object-Oriented Programming, also called OOP, differs from
procedural programming as the code contains both a method and data. Procedural
programming is a list of step-by-step instructions telling the code what to do.
Of course, OOP is a concept with many moving parts; however, let’s focus on
four major components for now. The four parts we will discuss are
encapsulation, abstraction, inheritance, and polymorphism.
Encapsulation can be thought of as a way to protect or hide
the primary data within a program from specific methods. Two methods will
attempt to gain program data; accessors and mutators. Accessors try to gather
information related to objects, and mutators attempt to change data.
Abstraction is a way of setting up code so that only its
relevance will show up in the software. In other words, abstraction keeps the
inner workings or minute details away from view.
Inheritance, in simplest terms, is a way for objects to
share data. Although there may be many data classes, inheritance makes data
relatable in a hierarchy so it can be shared.
Polymorphism allows for parameters to be set but not set in
stone. For example, a set of functions can be named the same, but each plays a
different role in how a task executes.
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