Introduction-to-Objects-and-Classes-in-BlueJ-Java
Introduction-to-Objects-and-Classes-in-BlueJ-Java
Objects and
Classes in BlueJ
Java
Welcome to the world of object-oriented programming (OOP) in Java with
BlueJ! In this presentation, we'll explore the fundamental concepts of objects
and classes, which form the core of OOP. BlueJ is an excellent environment
for beginners because it provides a visual and interactive way to learn about
these concepts. We'll start by understanding what objects and classes are,
then delve into how to create and manipulate them in BlueJ. We'll explore
features like object properties and methods, inheritance, polymorphism, and
encapsulation.
by harin patel
What is an Object?
An object in Java is like a real-world thing, but represented in code. Imagine a
car - it has properties like color, make, and model, and it can perform actions
like driving, braking, and turning. In Java, a car could be an object. It would
have properties like `color` (string), `make` (string), and `model` (string). It
could also have methods like `drive()`, `brake()`, and `turn()`. Objects are
instances of classes, meaning they are created from blueprints called classes.
Properties
Characteristics or attributes of an object. They define what the object is
like. For example, a car's color, make, and model are properties.
Methods
Actions or behaviors that an object can perform. For example, a car's
`drive()`, `brake()`, and `turn()` methods represent its actions.
What is a Class?
A class is a blueprint or template that defines the structure and behavior of
objects. It acts as a blueprint for creating objects. Think of a class like a
blueprint for building a house. The blueprint specifies the number of rooms,
the size of the house, and the type of materials to be used. Similarly, a class
in Java defines the properties and methods that all objects of that class will
have.
1 Properties
Properties are defined as variables within a class. They represent the
characteristics or attributes of objects created from that class.
2 Methods
Methods are functions defined within a class. They specify the
actions or behaviors that objects of that class can perform.
Declaring and
Instantiating Objects
In Java, we declare and instantiate objects using the `new` keyword.
Declaring an object means creating a reference to it, while instantiating it
means actually creating the object in memory. Let's consider the example of
our car object: We would first declare a variable of type `Car` (assuming we
have a class named `Car`) and then use the `new` keyword to create a new
`Car` object.
Declaration
1 Car myCar;
Instantiation
Inheritance Polymorphism
A mechanism where a child class inherits properties and The ability of objects to take on different forms depending
methods from a parent class. This allows for code reuse on the context. This means a method can have different
and creating hierarchies of classes. For example, a behaviors depending on the type of object it is called on.
`SportsCar` class could inherit from the `Car` class and For example, a `drive()` method could behave differently
add additional properties and methods specific to sports for a `SportsCar` object compared to a regular `Car`
cars. object.
Encapsulation and Access Modifiers
Encapsulation is the principle of hiding data (properties) and methods within a class. Access modifiers like `public`,
`private`, and `protected` control how these members can be accessed from outside the class. Encapsulation ensures
data integrity and provides a way to control access to object members.
Think in Objects
1
Start seeing the world around you as objects with properties
and behaviors. This can help you understand how objects
can be used to model real-world situations in Java.
3 Keep Learning
OOP is a vast and powerful paradigm. As you progress, you'll
encounter more advanced concepts and techniques. Keep
learning and exploring the world of object-oriented
programming!