Back to course 'CS101: Introduction to Computer Science I'

Topic outline

  • Unit 2: Object-Oriented Programming

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    Java is an object-oriented programming language. Object-oriented (OO) programming has proven to be one of the most effective and flexible programming paradigms. This unit will begin with a discussion of what makes OO programming so unique, and why its advantages have made it the industry-standard paradigm for newly designed programs. We then discuss the fundamental concepts of OO and relate them back to Java. By the end of this unit, you will have a strong understanding of what OO programming is, how it relates to Java, and why we use it.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 3 hours.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • discuss the differences between object-oriented and procedural languages;
      • explain the difference between classes and objects; and
      • explain object-oriented concepts such as inheritance, encapsulation, and polymorphism.

    • 2.1: Fundamental Concepts of OO Programming

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        Traditional vs. Object-Oriented Approaches Book
        Students must
        Mark as done

        Object-oriented approaches to software development are an important expansion of procedural approaches. Java explicitly supports both approaches, but you should focus on the object-oriented approach. This article compares the two approaches and explains the fundamentals of each.

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        Advantages and Disadvantages of Object-Oriented Programming Page
        Students must
        Mark as done

        Read this article about object-oriented programming. Every paradigm has its advantages and disadvantages. OO is the same.

    • 2.2: Using Java for OO Programming

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        Objects and Object-Oriented Programming Page
        Students must
        Mark as done

        This section explains fundamentals of object oriented programming. As you read, focus on the difference between classes and objects.

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        Inheritance, Polymorphism, and Abstract Classes Page
        Students must
        Mark as done

        This section expands the discussion from objects and classes to inheritance, polymorphism, and abstract classes. These facets of OO programming are a natural consequence of the basic concepts behind objects and classes.

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        Java Encapsulation Page
        Students must
        Mark as done

        Encapsulation facilitates control over access to components of a class. Read this article to get a clear understanding.

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        Decoupling Page
        Students must
        Mark as done

        A major principle of OO programming is keeping the implementation of an object separate from manipulation. This article explains how that works.

    • Unit 2 Assessment

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        Unit 2 Assessment Quiz
        Students must
        Receive a grade

        Take this assessment to see how well you understood this unit.

        • This assessment does not count towards your grade. It is just for practice!
        • You will see the correct answers when you submit your answers. Use this to help you study for the final exam!
        • You can take this assessment as many times as you want, whenever you want.