Moving Onward from Introductory Java

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    Introductory Java
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around what topics and skills to pursue after learning the basics of Java in preparation for a Computer Science degree, with a focus on software engineering. Participants explore various programming languages, command line interfaces, and operating systems, as well as foundational concepts in algorithms and data structures.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests learning C, particularly pointers, and possibly assembler, alongside a command line interface like bash on Linux or MacOS.
  • Another participant recommends becoming familiar with the Unix-like or Linux terminal, specifically mentioning Ubuntu.
  • A participant with more experience shares that while MacOS and Linux shells are similar, there are notable differences, and learning one can aid in understanding the other.
  • This experienced participant also emphasizes the value of practical experience with Linux, mentioning the use of Virtualbox to run Linux Mint for schoolwork and personal projects.
  • There is a mention of the importance of algorithms and data structures as core concepts for Computer Science and Software Engineering, with a reference to a specific textbook that includes exercises.
  • Another participant lists C/C++, Java (Core & Advanced), and Assembler as important languages to learn.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a variety of opinions on which languages and tools to focus on, indicating that there is no consensus on a single path forward. Different preferences for operating systems and programming languages are evident, reflecting a range of experiences and goals.

Contextual Notes

Some suggestions depend on personal interests and career goals, and the discussion includes varying levels of familiarity with different operating systems and programming languages. There are also references to specific resources and tools that may not be universally applicable.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students beginning their journey in Computer Science, particularly those interested in software engineering and looking for guidance on next steps after learning Java.

mowgli86
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After learning the basics of Java, what should I be learning about to help me prepare for the rest of a Comp Sci degree?

I am running Mac OS X, so I was thinking of learning my way around the terminal/bash, or something else Unix-based. My ultimate goal is software engineering, so I know that I will need to have an understanding of operating systems and the deep recesses of the software architecture. Also, I'd like to mess around with Linux (I think I've been saying that since the 90's), but would it be pointless to run Linux when I already have a Unix-based OS?

I understand that any answer will be subjective, but I would appreciate any advice.
 
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Learn C, especially pointers, and maybe some assembler.

Learn a command line interface, bash on linux, unix, MacOs , or even cygwin on widows.

Learn some formal algorithms and logic.

Then depending on what strikes your fancy, databases, web servers, etc...
 
you should learn the unix like or maybe linux terminal , try ubuntu hehe
btw for fast progress in java visit this site :

http://download.oracle.com/javase/6/docs/"
 
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I'm in a similar position, maybe a year or so ahead of you, studying Comp Sci and learning Java, Linux, etc

The MacOS shell is similar to the shell(s) in Linux, but there's big and little differences all over the place. Learning one will help learn the other.

I run Windows but I do all my school work, and some of my playing, in Linux. I use Virtualbox to run Linux Mint 10 (based on Ubuntu) in a virtual machine. This is convenient as I often need to switch between OS's.

Get your hands dirty! :)

The more you do, the more you know. Linux is great fun and very powerful, you'll learn a lot about operating systems if you dig around, and there's a motherload of free software and libraries out there for you to use.

I've just completed my first proper course on Algorithms and Data Structures, core concepts for Computer Science / Software Engineering, and found it fun and very difficult! https://www.amazon.com/dp/0262033844/?tag=pfamazon01-20 which I found to be fantastic and includes many exercises.
 
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C/C++, Java(Core & Advanced) and Assembler
 

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