Re: Learning java - any advice please?

[Larry Loen <lwloen@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Pete Clifford wrote:
> I've finally decided it's time I learnt java. I want to be able to write
> client applications in java which interact with the AS/400.
> 
> However, I'm confused and unsure where to start.

Others have given plenty of resources.  So, I won't repeat that.

My advise is simple:  Start using it.

Yes, you need to master object-orientation, GUI, and all the rest of it if 
you really want to be an adept.

But, nothing beats doing real work with a language.

You might write a little (*GASP*) procedural code at first, but until you 
really understand O-O, you will anyway.  So did we all.  If you wait until 
you've perfectly mastered O-O, you'll never get started.  O-O is a big 
transition, no doubt about it.  But, don't let it stop you from getting 
going.

There's always stuff going on at any job where you need to write a little 
program to get the answer.  Use Java for that.  It is general purpose 
enough that you can do whatever you need to do with it.  It'll get you 
answers and yet, it won't be production code, so you can walk away from 
your mistakes.

Also, learn JDBC.  You're an iSeries guy, right?  So, make sure you learn 
JDBC.  You can do a lot without ever touching a servlet or a GUI interface 
in Java.  In fact, you should.  Darn near all the "Learn Java" books start 
by teaching you GUI.  It's OK, but it's not really necessary.  You don't 
need to start with servlets or applets either -- learn how to write real 
applications.

Again, start with stuff you already need to do.  It will be more familiar 
and getting real answers is the best feedback I ever got.  That's how I 
learned my last  four or so computer languages.  Works like a charm.


--

Larry Loen, Senior Programmer iSeries Java and Linux analysis