Module Description -
M250 -
Object-oriented Java programming close window Object-oriented Java programming This module teaches the fundamental ideas behind the object-oriented approach to programming through the widely used Java programming language. Concentrating on aspects of Java that best demonstrate object-oriented principles and good practice, you'll gain a solid basis for further study of the Java language and object-oriented software development. Some experience in writing computer programs is essential. Course facts About this course: Course code M250 Credits 30 OU Level 2 SCQF level 8 FHEQ level 5 Course work includes: 3 Tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) Examination No residential school Print this page What you will study In the Object-oriented view of software, programs are considered to be collections of objects that interact using each other's methods and their results. These ideas are at the forefront of modern software development. Throughout the module you will use BlueJ, an integrated development environment (IDE) specifically developed for teaching and learning object-oriented programming. BlueJ is used worldwide and is easy to use. It places special emphasis on visualisation and interaction techniques to provide a highly interactive environment that encourages experimentation and exploration. The module takes an 'objects first' approach to teaching; you start seeing and interacting with objects right from the very start. This is achieved using BlueJ features that allow you to learn principles about construction and method calling. You'll soon start using Java code and syntax to edit provided practical examples, such as a ticket-machine, a digital clock, and a program that draws simple graphics. Initially, you'll be expected to add minor functionality to the provided projects, and experiment with their facilities. The module continues the teaching about fundamental object-oriented ideas by investigating: how to control the initial state of newly created objects different kinds of variables and methods in Java different kinds of data, including primitive and object types inheritance hierarchies and their impact on code reuse overriding methods and polymorphism abstract classes and interfaces file input and output. Along the way, you'll learn about Java structures for selection and iteration, and more about some of the core, provided Java classes. We introduce you to ideas about writing Java code in a good style and using appropriate design, as well as about different kinds of errors you will encounter and how to deal with them. As you go on, you'll develop increasingly complex object-oriented projects from scratch, using the BlueJ IDE, and gain a better understanding of the more complex examples in the textbook. The skill of appropriately utilising a provided library of classes (searching for a useful class and method, for example) is explicitly developed in this context. The last part of the module begins by investigating how data is written to and from files in Java and how objects can be made persistent by writing them to file. Both of these techniques are useful in larger scale programs. Vocational relevance This module provides you with a basis for further study of Java programming and introduces you to many (but not all) concepts that are tested by Java Certified Programmer and Java Certified Associate exams. Entry You need to be familiar with basic programming concepts – check if you're ready for M250, with our self-assessed quiz. You'd normally be prepared by completing OU level 1 study as part of one of our computing and IT qualifications. For this module, we recommend that you've passed Introduction to computing and technology 1 (TM111) and Introduction to computing and information technology 2 (TM112); or their predecessor TU100. Alternatively, you should be familiar with two other programming languages such as Scratch and Python. Study materials What's included The module uses a text book (Objects First with BlueJ, by Barnes and Kolling), which will be provided in print and ebook versions. This is supplemented by a range of online materials provided on the module website including OU produced Chapter Companions, guides, software, programming activities, student forums and a study planner. We'll also give you a printed Java Reference booklet for use during the module and in the exam. Computing requirements You'll need a desktop or laptop computer with an up-to-date version of 64-bit Windows 10 (note that Windows 7 is no longer supported) or macOS and broadband internet access. To join in spoken conversations in tutorials we recommend a wired headset (headphones/earphones with a built-in microphone). Our module websites comply with web standards and any modern browser is suitable for most activities. Our OU Study mobile App will operate on all current, supported, versions of Android and iOS. It's not available on Kindle. It's also possible to access some module materials on a mobile phone, tablet device or Chromebook, however, as you may be asked to install additional software or use certain applications, you'll also require a desktop or laptop as described above. Teaching and assessment Support from your tutor Throughout your module studies, you'll get help and support from your assigned module tutor. They'll help you by: Marking your assignments (TMAs) and providing detailed feedback for you to improve. Guiding you to additional learning resources. Providing individual guidance, whether that's for general study skills or specific module content. Facilitating online discussions between your fellow students, in the dedicated module and tutor group forums. Module tutors also run online tutorials throughout the module. Where possible, recordings of online tutorials will be made available to students. While these tutorials won't be compulsory for you to complete the module, you're strongly encouraged to take part. Assessment The assessment details for this module can be found in the facts box above. You will be expected to submit your tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) online through the eTMA system unless there are some difficulties which prevent you from doing so. In these circumstances, you must negotiate with your tutor to get their agreement to submit your assignment on paper. If you have a disability The OU strives to make all aspects of study accessible to everyone. The Accessibility Statement below outlines what studying this module involves. You should use this information to inform your study preparations and any discussions with us about how we can meet your needs. Mode of study All of this module's study materials are provided online. Online materials are composed of pages of text with images; and audio and video clips of 15 seconds to 23 minutes long. Online materials also include links to external resources, online forums and online tutorial rooms. Printed materials are provided for all module content. Supplementary materials are provided online. Tuition strategy This module provides a range of learning events: face-to-face and online tutorials. Each face-to-face learning event offers an online (or other) alternative. Although not compulsory, attendance at tutorials will help you consolidate your learning. Mathematical and scientific expressions and notations The module contains a small amount of mathematical content using appropriate notations, and you will be required to use such notation within assessment. Diagrams and other visual content The study materials contain a considerable number of diagrams. Reading, interpreting and producing examples of these is an important part of the study of this module and can be assessed. Figure descriptions are provided for most figures. Specialist reading material In this module you'll be working with specialist reading material such as computing code. This is delivered online, in printed form and via bespoke third party software. Assessment This module has Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMAs), which must be submitted online via the OU electronic TMA system, interactive computer-marked assignments completed online, and an exam that must be taken at an exam centre. Feedback You'll receive feedback from your tutor on your submitted Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMAs). This will help you to reflect on your TMA performance. You should refer to it to help you prepare for your next assignment. Schedule All University modules are structured according to a set timetable and you'll need time-management skills to keep your studies on track. You'll be supported in developing these skills. Specialist software This module uses specialist Java software and you will need to use the Java Access Bridge software in addition to other assistive tools such as screen readers. The materials include an Accessibility Guide intended to help students with disabilities study the module. Future availability Object-oriented Java programming (M250) starts once a year – in October. This page describes the module that will start in October 2021. We expect it to start for the last time in October 2023. This course is expected to start for the last time in October 2023. close window
