Learn Java: A Beginner's Guide for Marketability

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around learning Java as a programming language, particularly focusing on approaches suitable for beginners who lack prior experience with high-level programming languages. Participants explore resources, support mechanisms, and the challenges faced in understanding programming concepts and terminology.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in learning Java due to a lack of familiarity with programming terminology and syntax, citing previous experiences with BASIC and C++.
  • Another participant recommends the book "Java in a Nutshell" but notes it assumes some basic programming knowledge.
  • There is a suggestion to create a "Java Classroom" thread to break down simple programs for better understanding.
  • A participant inquires about the need for specific software or hardware to run Java programs and suggests the idea of sharing code as text files for compilation assistance.
  • A later reply emphasizes the importance of compiling and running code independently for better learning.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need for structured support and resources for learning Java, but there are differing opinions on the best methods for providing that support, particularly regarding the compilation of code.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the necessity of certain software and the compilation process, indicating a need for clarification on these technical aspects.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in learning Java, particularly those with no prior programming experience or those seeking to improve their marketability in the tech field.

turin
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What's the best way to learn Java. I'm trying to improve my marketability. I don't know any high level programming languages. Well, I had to take BASIC in 8th grade, back when eveyone still used Apple. I also took something called, I think, Q-BASIC? at college. I tried learning C++ or something like that, maybe Visual C++, using one of those learn-it-yourself books when I was working as an engineer, but I just couldn't do it. My main problem I think is the termonology/syntax. I just can't seem to make sense of it in the language center of my brain. I understand algorithms and flow charts, but I just don't get having to type:

main()

or java.lib.something_else

or whatever.


Then there's the compiler issue. I never quite understood that. Why bother writing the code if it isn't useful until it is compiled? Why can't you just write something *.exe to tell the computer directly what to do?

As you can see, I'm software/programming stupid. Does anyone have any suggestions?
 
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Well, the "Java in a Nutshell" book by O'Reilly is quite good, but it does assume the reader has some basic programming experience.

We can definitely help you with the details. Perhaps I should start a "Java Classroom" thread, and begin by breaking down some simple programs so they're easy to understand? What do you think?

- Warren
 
chroot said:
Perhaps I should start a "Java Classroom" thread, and begin by breaking down some simple programs so they're easy to understand? What do you think?
Hell ya! I tried using some internet tutorials, but they were all written in poor English (or perhaps very heavy jargon).

Will I need to get any software/hardware for my computer in order to run the programs? Could I attach them as text files to my posts and let you compile them for me and then attach the compiled result to your posts? How much support can I get from you (y'all)?
 
It would be easier for you to compile and run them yourself! :smile: Hold on, I'm making a new thread.

- Warren
 

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