Thursday, June 19, 2014

Week 2: Lesson 4: Introduction to the Java Language

Lesson 4: Introduction to the Java Language
INTRODUCTION
In this lesson you will be learning how to understand and use Java and how it will make your Android app work. The basic concepts of the Java language will set you on your way to becoming a proficient programmer, and you will be able to apply these concepts and skills as you work within the Eclipse IDE to create a mobile app for Android.

LESSON OBJECTIVES
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
Section #1: Introduction to Java for Android
1.     Develop a basic understanding of programming languages, including concepts and the terminology used to describe what programmers need to know and are able to do
2.     Identify central components of the Java language in order to use this language to develop your app for Android
3.     Describe how the Java language can be used to develop an app for Android
Section #2: Using Java for Android with Eclipse
1.     Practice using the Java language with the Eclipse IDE to create a mobile application for Android.
Section #3: Video Tutorial: Practice with the Java Language
1.     Practice how to link XML to Java class
2.     Determine how to set up buttons in the Java class

LEARNING SEQUENCE

Required Reading
Read the following:
·      Section #1:


·      Section #2:


Resources
View the following: 
·      Sample Code
·      Video Transcripts
Assignments
Complete the following:
·      The Five Basic Concepts in Programming
·      Starting a Project Using Java with the Eclipse IDE to Create Basic Components of an Android App


INSTRUCTION

Section #1: Introduction to Java for Android

In this section, you will gain insight into what most programmers know and do. While programming concepts may not be easy to initially grasp, you will understand them better in time and with practice. With knowledge of the Java language, you can develop both simple and sophisticated Android applications.

Step 1.
Read through this entire website and use it as a resource to develop your basic knowledge of programming for any language. The 5 central topics introduced in this reading will assist you in better understanding the central components of the Java Language. Read through each section which will cover Variables, Control Structures, Data Structures, Syntax, Tools for programming.  

Step 2.
This reading provides an overview of the Java language. Read through the concepts presented: Constructors, Inheritance, Static and Instance Variables, Interfaces, Imports, ”main” method, Inner Classes, Packages, Build Path, Jar Files, API’s, Comments and JavaDoc. This reading can become a resource to build your knowledge of the Java language and become a guide as you move through this course.

Step 3.
This reading will provide you with an introduction to Java programming but in the context of Android mobile development. This is important in this course as you will be learning the Java language but it will be used to develop mobile applications for the Android platform with development environment specific to this purpose. Starting from the Introduction and Getting Started, read all the way to the section on Wrapping Up. This reading provides descriptions of the necessary downloads, overview of Java and object orientated programming (OOP).

Step 4.
Complete Assignment #1: The Five Basic Concepts in Programming

Section #2: Using Java for Android with Eclipse
In this section you will understand more about how to work with the Eclipse software. Basic components of the Eclipse UI will be explained. This should set you on your way to creating your Android project with ease.

Step 1.
This resource offers a step-by-step guide on how to set up the SDK and Eclipse. With the ADT (Android Developer Tools) plugin, Eclipse provides an environment in which you can build, code, design, and run your Android apps.

Step 2.
Complete Assignment #2: Starting a Project Using Java with the Eclipse IDE to Create Basic Components of an Android App

Section #3: Video Demonstration on Developing an Understanding of Java

This video tutorial will guide you through the process of how to link XML to a Java class. You will also determine how to set up buttons in the Java class. Please pause and review the video, as necessary, to complete tasks. Transcripts are provided.

Step 1.
View & Practice: Lesson 4 [6:52]

SUMMARY
While the Java language and the concepts behind it may take some time for you to understand and use, the five concepts presented in this lesson will set you on your way to becoming more proficient with the language. Now that you know a bit more about basic concepts in programming and with the Java language in specific, you can determine how to best develop your Android app using the Eclipse IDE. In the next lesson you will be introduced to new Java classes as you create a logo for your app.

ASSIGNMENTS
·      The Five Basic Concepts in Programming
·      Starting a Project Using Java with the Eclipse IDE to Create Basic Components of an Android App


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