What you will study
Since its introduction, Java has become one of the most widely used computer languages. Initially riding on the crest of the rapid expansion of the internet, Java has established itself as a tremendously versatile programming language.
The underlying theme of this module is that Java is everywhere; not just in the sense that it is a highly portable programming language, but also in the sense it is able to run on a wide range of platforms.
In this module you will learn how Java can be used to build systems that power many applications, ranging from ecommerce and online banking to online games and downloadable music. Java runs on servers, PCs, mobile phones and PDAs (hand-held computers). Java can be found in TV set-top boxes, embedded devices (forming part of larger systems such as cars, robots or printers), smart cards and even in wearable computers.
The module will show you how, through the concept of Java Editions, Java can be used in all of the platforms mentioned above. For example, Java Editions can cater for the different needs and resources of large international ecommerce systems running on extensive networks with many servers, as well as the smaller requirements of games software running on mobile phones with limited hardware resources. The module‘s main focus is on the Java 2 Standard Edition (J2SE) but you will also be introduced to the Java 2 Micro Edition (J2ME), which is designed for use on smaller systems with limited resources such as mobile phones.
The module begins with the assumption that you already have some basic knowledge about object-orientation and programming languages, either from a previous module, from your work, or perhaps from something you have read independently. From this basic understanding, the module will provide a broad coverage of Java. Although the module concentrates on producing stand-alone applications, it also shows you how the skills and knowledge you develop are directly transferable to other systems: for example web-based systems through the use of applets, and mobile-phone systems through the use of MIDlets. The module will also touch on topics such as Java on servers (servlets) and that of Java code roaming the internet through the use of aglets.
Entry
This is a Level 2 module and you need a good knowledge of the subject area.
You should be familiar with the following concepts: objects; objects interacting by the exchange of messages (or invoking methods); data types; classes; control structures; inheritance; and simple object-oriented design. This knowledge could have been obtained either from studying {Building blocks of software [M263]} (now discontinued) or from equivalent work at another university. The first three units of the module revise the above concepts. However, because we expect prior knowledge, you are expected to study these units at a rapid rate. To make sure you are sufficiently prepared for M257 why not try our Java Refresher Quiz.
If you have any doubt about the suitability of the module, please contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service.
Qualifications
M257 is a compulsory module in our
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#BSc (Hons) Computing [B29]#
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#BA (Hons) or BSc (Hons) Computing and Mathematical Sciences [B14]#
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#BA (Hons) or BSc (Hons) Computing and Statistics [B34]#
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#BSc (Hons) Computing and Systems Practice [B33]#
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#BSc (Hons) Computing with Business [B35]#
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#Foundation Degree in Computing and its Practice [G06]#
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#Diploma of Higher Education in Computing and its Practice [E41]#
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#BSc (Hons) Computing with Psychological Studies [B49]#
M257 is an optional module in our
It can also count towards most of our other degrees at bachelors level, where it is equally appropriate to a BA or BSc. We advise you to refer to the relevant qualification descriptions for information on the circumstances in which this module can count towards these qualifications because from time to time the structure and requirements may change.
Excluded combinations
Sometimes you will not be able to count a module towards a qualification if you have already taken another module with similar content. To check any excluded combinations relating to this module, visit our excluded combination finder or check with our Student Registration & Enquiry Service before registering.
If you have a disability
Module texts are available in electronic format. The module may be challenging if you have impaired sight as many diagrammatic models are involved, though descriptions of the diagrams are available. M257 uses the software package NetBeans version 6.9.1. Much of the software can instead be run from a command line although there are some practical exercises that require the ability to analyse visual information that appears on a computer screen.
You will need to make use of a personal computer and the internet. The study materials are available in Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF). Components may not be available or fully accessible using a screen reader and mathematical, scientific, and foreign language materials may be particularly difficult to read in this way. The books are available in a comb-bound format. Our Services for disabled students website has the latest information about availability.
Teaching and assessment
Support from your tutor
You will have a tutor who will help you with the study material and mark and comment on your written work, and whom you can ask for advice and guidance. We may also be able to offer group tutorials or day-schools that you are encouraged, but not obliged, to attend. Where your tutorials are held will depend on the distribution of students taking the module. Contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service if you want to know more about study with The Open University before you register.
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.
The interactive computer-marked assignments (iCMAs) must be submitted online.