Book excerpt: This lab manual is appropriate for any Introduction to Programming course that uses the Java programming language. Its hands-on exercises are intended to help students improve their understanding of the fundamental structures in Java. The order of the topics in this manual reflects an objects-first approach with the goal of helping students understand the object-oriented paradigm. This manual is divided into three parts. The first part presents the core of the Java language. These six sessions provide experience with core features and principles of the Java programming language. They provide enough breadth and depth for readers to learn more of Java on their own or in later courses. The second part of the manual helps students explore issues pertaining to algorithms. Recursion is considered here, as well important searching algorithms. Finally, methods of algorithm analysis are examined. The final part of the manual covers a number of additional topics that are not decribed in the core sessions such as graphics, inheritance, and object design. Features Includes eighteen laboratories, each with: Introductory Material New Skills that students will develop in the exercise Prerequisite Skills to ensure students are prepared for the session Required Files to use, modify, and extend in the exercises Discussion of topics covered in the laboratory session Experiments to reinforce the discussion Post-Laboratory Problems to enhance understanding Notes on selected problems Focuses on applications, but includes optional material on applets Provides an objects-first approach to working with Java Written on the Java 2 platform Designed to work with any Java textbook 0201612674B04062001