1.5.2 The Java Tutorial

The Java Tutorial by Sun Microsystems in-browser tutorial database that walks people through the Java programming language. It begins with the very basics – including installing the language itself – and eventually ramps up into highly specialized topics. In essence, the Java Tutorial provides the beginning Java programmer with a clean, straightforward, step-by-step progression of Java. In terms of the requirements of the CSTutor, the Java Tutorial provides a good paradigm for tutorial layout, simplicity, and content, but does not address the more advanced functions that the CSTutor requires (i.e. public database, application-driven, invidual user tracking).

Good Features:

• Starts from the very beginning.

• Very straightforward, ordered, and sensible linear progression through concepts.

• Helpful examples, diagrams, warnings, “common errors” notes, and suggestions.

• (Tutorial → Trail → Lesson) format for presenting material. All Lesson titles are visible from the Table of Contents of the Trail you are currently in.

• Clickable links in the Lesson allow for quick definitions, references, and related topics.

• Search function, FAQs, Questions and Exercises.

• Entirely in-browser (see Bad Features).

Bad Features:

• Inconsistent layout. Uses too many varied graphics, bullets, font sizes, etc. which takes away from the uniformity of the tutorial.

• Navigation isn’t ideal. Back, Table of Contents, and Forward arrows constitute the three-button navigation bar. Sometimes the page doesn’t allow you to move back or forward, and the fastest way to continue to the next lesson is to go back to the TOC and click on the next lesson (no option to simply go to the next lesson).

• Sometimes the Lesson tries to pack too much information on a single page, and can appear overwhelming. Added sidebars are a distraction, and too many graphics can make things seem overly complex. Excessive coloring of text is also an added distraction.

• Entirely in-browser (see Good Features).

Missing Features:

• No overall Outline view of the contents, and thus no quick-jumping to a specific trail/lesson.

• No instant-feedback quizzes, no in-browser executable code samples.

• No way to keep track of progress, except by remembering where you left off.