John E. Darrow -- Core Concepts of Object-oriented Programming -- Course Description
Core Concepts of Object-oriented Programming

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Instructor

John E. Darrow [ resumé | main page ]

Course Description

This course presents the basic concepts of object-oriented programming and trains participants to identify key expressions in source code. Such knowledge helps those who need to understand basic terminology (for example, who want to speak intelligently on the topic with coworkers and customers).

There is no expectation that attendees have programming background nor intent to become programmers. This is a concepts course that helps attendees learn about fundamental object-oriented concepts in the context of the C++ and Java programming languages.

The core concepts presented in this course are duplicates of those taught in the documentation and programming courses identified above--yet with no time given to programming or to documentation topics.

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • Describe the difference between applets and applications
  • Look at Java source code and identify the variables, methods, and constructors
  • Identify the "four parts of a method"
  • Describe the difference between a class and an instance
  • Describe the implications of inheritance and overloading
  • Describe the implications of the static, final, const, public and private modifiers

Intended audience

This course is ideal for anyone wishing to be solid in object-oriented concepts and terminology specific to Java and C++:

  • sales, marketing
  • human interface design
  • quality assurance
  • software engineering
  • tech writing
  • managers of any of these groups

The instructor paces the class according to the needs of those newest to the topic. Plenty of time is allowed for both beginning and advanced questions, though the instructor reserves the right to cut off tangents that do not help the class as a whole.

Duration

One full day session.

Prerequisites

No prior programming experience is required. However, this course is packed with technical concepts and the serious student should come prepared to dive into these topics and have the guts to ask questions when not clear on the subject matter.

Methods

Lecture, in-class exercises and a final (see related FAQ item).

Fee

$1000/class or $300/student, whichever is greater, plus materials and travel expenses, if appropriate. For 15-35 students, ask about discounts.

Room requirements

A large whiteboard. No computers or overhead projector are needed.

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