Introduction to Programming with Greenfoot: Object-Oriented Programming in Java with Games and Simulations

by Michael Kölling

This is the eBook of the printed book and may not include any media, website access codes, or print supplements that may come packaged with the bound book.

For courses in programming and computer science.

 

Hands-on Programming with Greenfoot

Introduction to Programming with Object-Oriented Programming in Java with Games and Simulations teaches the basics of Java computer programming languages in the context of Greenfoot. Readers are able to learn the general fundamentals and principles of programming by creating their very own fun and interesting games and simulations. Major concepts are conveyed in modern, object-oriented programming language through hands-on, practical activity that allows readers to create, observe, and play.

The Second Edition employs a unique approach that teaches by doing--concepts are often explained after readers have had a chance to engage in interactive examples. Because of its uniquely hands-on approach in the context of the Greenfoot environment, Introduction to Programming with Greenfoot makes programming a fun, interactive subject for readers to enjoy.

298 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 11, 2009

Reviews

[Charles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Greenfoot is a Java-based language constructed from a set of objects with methods that can be imported into and modified in programs. In general the objects are designed to be used in simple games, demonstrations and simulations.
The goal is to teach object-oriented programming and that goal is met with one major caveat, the explanations of how the objects interact are often too abbreviated for easy comprehension. The reader has to know some basic programming, have knowledge of the programming basics such as function calls, the role of variables and what kind of data they contain and what it means for a function to be “void” or return a value.
For example, inheritance is a complex concept, far more nuanced than it appears in this book. Constructors and object passing via the this pointer are not simple concepts. Finally, some of the screenshots of class descriptions are often unreadable.
This is a book that can be used to teach the basics of object-oriented programming where the reader can really have some fun while learning. However, it is not an effective stand-alone educational device and a knowledgeable instructor will make the life of the user far more productive. . There is a reason why Java textbooks are hundreds of pages long, all of that is needed if you are going to use and understand the full power of the language.

This review also appears on Amazon

[Adam Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awesome book for newcomers to programming. You will get a firm grip on the Java language, by having a lot of fun creating animals, space scenarios and what not in their own framework with the same name as the book.
Must recommend for rookies embarking on learning Java! (Also great if you consider game-development!).

[Cameron Sung · Rating 1 out of 5]

A terrible book that is barely challenging for a 10 year old.

[Fernando Rojas · Rating 4 out of 5]

For sure a great book, but not for 10 years old child. Perhaps for teenagers with the support of a tutor. Even, it's possible for some Straordinary kid that dedicate lots of time to it.

[Mills College Library]

005.133 G812k 2016