If you're a university student feeling overwhelmed by Java programming, you're not alone. Many students struggle with learning how to code, especially when the course material gets more complex. But there’s a proven solution! By following the AP Computer Science A syllabus—widely used in high schools in the U.S.—you can gain a solid foundation in Java, regardless of where you currently stand. Whether you're preparing for exams, projects, or just looking to build confidence, this step-by-step guide will help you understand and apply Java concepts in no time.

This blog post is tailored specifically for Malaysian university students who may need extra support in mastering Java. We’ll cover key topics such as variables, control flow, object-oriented programming, data structures, and much more. Let’s dive in and start your journey toward becoming a more confident Java programmer!

Class 1 (9 Sept 2024) 

a) Class Summary:

- Demo Session

Class 2 (12 Sept 2024) 

a) Class Summary:

• The class covers the basics of static and non-static methods in Java, including how to define and call these methods within a program.

• It explores method signatures and how inputs, like integers and doubles, are passed into functions, along with the importance of using the return keyword when returning values from a method.

• Students also learn about using Java's Math library for functions like sqrt and abs, understanding how methods operate with and without input parameters.

b) Video (Thrusday):

- Part 1: Java Programming for Beginners: Live Session Breakdown & Hands-on Coding Tutorial

- Part 2: Java Methods and Static vs Non-Static Explained: Live Coding Session

- Part 3: Mastering Java Methods: Static, Non-Static, and Returning Values Explained 

d) Files:

- Static & Non Static methods part 1
 

e) Class Code:

- n/a

f) Exercises:

- Write and understand the provided function, then create a similar function for division using double data types.

g) HomeWork Solutions Posting (FB) :

-  post answers or link to answer files

Class 3 (16 Sept 2024) 

a) Class Summary:

• Memory Management in Java: Discussed how memory is allocated and released, focusing on garbage collection and heap management.
• Method Overloading: Covered how to overload methods by changing the number and type of parameters, allowing flexible code implementation.
• Variable Scope: Explained the difference between variable scope within functions and the main program, and how values behave across different data types.
• Average Calculation: Practiced writing a method to calculate the average of two numbers, highlighting proper function definition and variable usage.

b) Video (Monday):

- Part 1: Mastering Programming Fundamentals: Memory Management, Method Overloading, and Average Calculation

d) Files:

- Static & Non Static methods (Completed)

e) Class Code:

- n/a

f) Exercises:

- Create Methods as defined in the Module 5 Lab

g) HomeWork Solutions Posting (FB) :

-  post answers or link to answer files

Class 4 (19 Sept 2024) 

a) Class Summary:

• Java Programming and Memory Management: Ahmed and Naim discussed Java's string manipulation methods, memory addresses, and how an operating system loads into RAM. Naim learned how data is organized inside RAM using binary addresses.

• High-Level vs. Low-Level Languages: They explored the differences between high-level languages like Java and low-level languages such as assembly language, focusing on the translation of code into machine language and understanding memory locations.

• Balancing AI and Independent Coding: Ahmed advised Naim on balancing the use of ChatGPT with independent coding, suggesting an 80/20 ratio and emphasizing the importance of developing self-reliant programming skills.

• Practical Tips and Next Steps: Naim was encouraged to practice Java programming, focus on sports to boost cognitive function, avoid negative emotions before classes, and consider subscribing to Replit if affordable for improved functionality.

b) Video (Thrusday):

- Part 1: Understanding Java, Memory, and Programming Challenges: Key Takeaways from Ahmed and Naim’s Class

d) Files:

- Module 6 - Introduction to String Methods (Part 1)

- High vs Low-Level Languages & Memory Management

e) Class Code:

- n/a

f) Exercises:

- Strings Homework - Acronym Creation & Flashlight Exercise

g) HomeWork Solutions Posting (FB) :

-  post answers or link to answer files

Class 5 (24 Sept 2024) 

a) Class Summary:

• String Manipulation Techniques: Students practiced using substring methods, string indexing, and ASCII values to understand character representation in programming.

• String Equality Checks: The session covered the differences between the equals() method and the == operator, highlighting best practices for string comparisons.

• Data Representation: Exercises included converting between binary and decimal numbers, enhancing students' understanding of data storage and manipulation.

• Random Number Generation and Troubleshooting: The class explored Java's Math.random() method for generating random numbers and addressed code troubleshooting techniques.

b) Video (Monday):

- Part 1: Java Programming: String Manipulation and Random Number Generation

d) Files:

• String Manipulation Module - How to use indexOf and equals method
• Random Number Generation Formula

e) Class Code:

- n/a

f) Exercises:

-  Generate Random Numbers & BMR Wellness Exercise

g) HomeWork Solutions Posting (FB) :

-  post answers or link to answer files

Class 6 (26 Sept 2024) 

a) Class Summary:

• Programming Exercises: Covered if-else statements, string manipulation, comparison methods, and immutability concepts in coding.
• Variable Scope Discussion: Explained local vs. global scopes in Java and their implications in programming.
• Career Path Exploration: Discussed different fields in programming and engineering to help Naim identify his interests.
• Server Types Overview: Compared rack servers and standard servers, highlighting their differences and real-world applications.

b) Video (Thrusday):

- Part 1: Programming Concepts and Career Insights: If-Else Statements, String Manipulation, and Server Types

d) Files:

• Completed CompareTo Method from Module 6

e) Class Code:

• Not applicable

f) Exercises:

• Create printName and pigLatin Methods exercises from Module 6

g) HomeWork Solutions Posting (FB) :

-  post answers or link to answer files

Class 7 (30 Sept 2024) 

a) Class Summary:

• String Manipulation Techniques: Discussed methods like split, indexOf, and substring for extracting names from strings.
• Code Efficiency: Focused on making the code dynamic and adaptable by recognizing patterns and using indexes effectively.
• Coding Best Practices: Emphasized understanding code, avoiding blind copying, and balancing AI reliance with mental agility in coding.
• Learning and Practice: Encouraged consistent coding practice, refining skills through mistakes, and focusing on proper coding techniques over merely learning new topics.

b) Video (Monday):

- Part 1: Mastering String Manipulation and Code Optimization in Java

d) Files:

• n/a

e) Class Code:

• Not applicable

f) Exercises:

• Java Class - PrintName Method Code Improvements
• Java Class - BMR Method Creation
• Java Class - If Statement Lecture Lab

g) HomeWork Solutions Posting (FB) :

-  post answers or link to answer files

Class 8 (3 Oct 2024) 

a) Class Summary:

• Python Automation & Text Extraction: Ahmed demonstrated Python code for extracting text from PDFs and images, discussing its application for Naim's study resources.
• Input Validation and Loops: They discussed techniques for proper input validation, emphasizing the importance of error handling and avoiding infinite loops.
• OCR Software & Programming Concepts: The pair explored OCR technology and how it can be integrated into programming for editing scanned content.
• Java Functions & Best Practices: Ahmed reviewed essential Java functions such as Math.abs(), Math.pow(), and string comparison using .equals().

b) Video (Tuesday):

- Part 1: Mastering Python Automation, OCR, and Java Code Essentials

d) Files:

• Overview of Class static methods 

e) Class Code:

• Not applicable

f) Exercises:​

• Java Class - If Statement Lecture Lab

g) HomeWork Solutions Posting (FB) :

-  post answers or link to answer files