I just can't comprehend Java!

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How to learn java for a degree...
A couple of thoughts...

1. Java FACTS:

- Java is an application programming language, it can be used as an object-based language much like Visual Basic for building normal applications except that it runs on every platform.

- Java is an object-oriented development language, it can be used as an object=oriented language not at all like Visual Basic - you can inherit or extend EVERYTHING! It offers higher end productivity and quality compared to languages like VB, RPG, COBOL etc.

- Java is a runtime environment. Java is effectively a "portable operating system" application environment. While the JVM runs on an OS, it effectively BECOMES THE OS for an app. The Java Runtime Environment (JRE) combines JVM and base Java API set. It offers a consistent, portable application environment that is INTELLIGENT (unlike the average OS)...

- Java is designed for e-business. Java has built-in support for networking at every level. From threaded sockets to JSPs, web-services etc. nothing can approach Java as a language for networked apps. I do communications programming in other languages. Java has more networking features than all the other languages combined...

2. Java business value:

- Java offers higher business paybacks faster for a networked business environment.

- Java is an open, standards based environment with lower business risks. Sun has done an excellent job with partners like IBM and others to ensure Java IS a clear standard with a long term direction like many W3C and CCITTT standards: SQL, XML, HTML etc. Therefore there are MANY vendors for runtime and tool environments.

3. Java skills pyramid:

- Java skills pyramid has 4 levels for developer skill:

* Visual development: Legacy developers learn how to visually generate, and customize Java apps in days.

* Application development: Developers use Java much like VB as an object-based application language. It only takes weeks to learn this.

* Object-oriented development: Developers learn to increase productivity and quality with full OO development. It takes months to learn this.

* Intelligent development: Don't worry about this. Yes some software companies do this but it doesn't relate to applications directly and won't be on anyone's horizon.

Unfortunately most education sources only know how to teach option number 3. I actually teach all 4 ... it's based on the needs of the client.

4. Java developers: Are you looking for a CS degree or a legacy developer looking for new skills?

Depending on who you are and your business' application needs determines where on the skills pyramid you should focus.

5. Java learning strategies: For legacy developers we usually do visual development and then application development.

For a CS student, probably application development and then object-oriented development makes sense.

Hope that helps ?