Lesson 1

This module helps you understand the technology and what it can accomplish. Time will be speant learning about the standard set of development tools used to develop Java programs. This tool suite is known as the Java 2 Software Development Kit, or SDK. In this module you will learn how to acquire and install the Java 2 SDK. You will also learn how to use the most important tools provided in the Java 2 SDK.

Starting with Java 17, a Long-Term Support (LTS) version, is a commendable decision as it ensures stability and long-term viability for your projects. As a computer science student diving into object-oriented programming (OOP), mastering Java will provide a solid foundation due to its strong adherence to OOP principles, robust standard libraries, and widespread use in industry. Here is a structured guide to kickstart your learning journey:

1. Environment Setup: Before writing any code, you need to have the right tools in place. Install Java Development Kit (JDK) 17 from the official Oracle website or adopt OpenJDK. Ensure that your JAVA_HOME environment variable is set, and that your PATH includes the JDK's bin directory.
   
   • Integrated Development Environment (IDE): Choose a powerful IDE such as IntelliJ IDEA or Eclipse that offers intelligent code completion, debugging tools, and support for Java 17 features. These environments significantly enhance productivity and code quality.
2. Understand Java Basics: Focus on understanding the fundamental concepts and syntax of Java:
   • Data Types and Variables: Learn about Java's primitive data types, operators, and how to declare variables.
   • Control Flow: Master if-else statements, switch-case, loops (for, while, do-while), and exception handling.
   • Functions (Methods): Understand how to define and invoke functions, along with the concepts of function overloading and recursion.
3. Deep Dive into Object-Oriented Concepts: Java is inherently object-oriented, so grasp the four pillars of OOP:
   • Encapsulation: Understand how to bundle the data (attributes) and the methods (functions) that operate on the data into a single unit or class, and how to restrict access to some of the object's components.
   • Inheritance: Learn how to create a new class that is based on an existing class, inheriting its attributes and behaviors.
   • Polymorphism: Grasp how Java allows methods to do different things based on the object it is acting upon, even though they share the same name.
   • Abstraction: Understand how to create abstract classes and interfaces, allowing you to create programs that work with objects of related types.



4. Work with Standard Libraries Familiarize yourself with Java’s extensive standard libraries, which provide utility functions and data structures:
   • Java Collections Framework: Understand and implement various data structures like Lists, Sets, Maps, and Queues.
   • Java Stream API: Learn how to efficiently process collections of objects with stream operations.
   • Java I/O and NIO: Grasp file handling and non-blocking I/O operations.
5. Implement Projects and Practice: Theoretical knowledge is crucial, but practical experience is paramount:
   • Project Implementation: Start with simple projects like a to-do list, a basic calculator, or a file management system, and gradually increase complexity.
   • Code Practices: Follow best practices such as writing clean, modular, and well-documented code. Utilize design patterns where appropriate.
6. Explore Advanced Features and Concepts Java 17 comes with several advanced features and enhancements:
   • Pattern Matching for Switch (Preview): Understand how to simplify common coding patterns.
   • New APIs and Language Enhancements: Stay updated with the new features introduced in Java 17.
7. Join Java Communities and Seek Resources Engage with the Java community:
   • Forums and Online Platforms: Platforms like Stack Overflow, Reddit, and the official Java Community provide invaluable resources and a place to ask questions.
   • Tutorials and Documentation: Utilize official Java documentation, online tutorials, and books tailored to Java 17.

Embarking on your journey with Java 17, you are setting yourself up for a profound understanding of object-oriented programming and a skill set highly sought after in the industry. The key is consistent practice, real-world application, and continuous learning. Java's extensive community and wealth of resources ensure that you are well-supported throughout your learning journey.

After completing the module, you will have the skills and knowledge necessary to:

1. Understand what the Java technology has to offer
2. Acquire and install the Java 2 Software Development Kit (SDK)
3. Compile Java programs using the Java compiler
4. Run Java applications using the Java interpreter
5. Run Java applets using the Java AppletViewer