Java 1.5 - Implications for Teaching

Charles Thevathayan

School of Computer Science and IT

Date and time: 11:30am-12:30pm, Friday 3rd March, 2006

Venue: 10.08.04

Chair: Xiaodong Li

Abstract:

A Java Task force was formed by ACM Education Board two years back, to make it easier to teach Java to first year computer science students by coming up with pedagogical resources. Some of the problems identified were:

1.      Lack of a simple input mechanism

2.      Lack of parametric classes

3.      Difficulty in using the Wrapper classes

Java 1.5 has introduced a number of new classes and enhancements to fix some common problems faced by introductory students.  However other problems, such as inappropriate GUI components for beginners still remain a concern.

This talk will highlight some enhancements in J2SE 5.0.  It hopes to promote discussion on ways to further improving the teaching methodologies using these enhancements and ways of working around existing problems. The changing profile of students requires us to adapt new ways to keep our students interested in our programs.

About the speaker:

Charles Thevathayan is a lecturer at the School of Computer Science and IT, RMIT University.

 


Seminar Organisation

Seminars are free and open to the general public. No booking is necessary. If you are interested in giving a presentation in this seminar series, or to make suggestions for speakers, please contact Xiaodong Li, the seminar co-ordinator.