Lesson 1 · Starting the portfolio
Java Portfolio Setup
Install and organise a Java workspace, run a first program and start a reflective portfolio.
Degree Level Programmes
Programming 1
A first-semester Java programming portfolio course covering the software lifecycle, core programming constructs, testing, maintenance and professional practice.
Lessons
Lesson 2 · Programming culture
The Appropriate Programmer
Develop the disciplined habits needed to learn programming from first principles rather than chasing copied answers.
Lesson 3 · Build feedback
Compilation and Build Feedback
Learn how Java translation reports syntax, names, types and structure before a program can run.
Lesson 4 · State manipulation
Declaring and Assigning Variables
Understand declaration, assignment and reassignment as controlled changes to program state.
Lesson 5 · Program entry point
The Main Method
Understand why Java needs a precise starting point before any other code can run.
Lesson 6 · Flow of control
Calling and Returning with Methods
See a method call as a temporary jump away from the current flow, followed by a return to the caller.
Lesson 7 · Code organisation
Packages, Imports and Names
Understand how Java names code so programmers can use libraries without naming conflicts.
Lesson 8 · Requirements analysis
Requirements and User Stories
Turn a vague brief into functional requirements, constraints, user stories and acceptance checks.
Lesson 9 · Design
Program Design Before Java
Plan a small program using decomposition, pseudocode, data choices and a simple class outline before coding.
Lesson 10 · Programming foundations
Java Types, Variables and Expressions
Use Java primitive types, strings, variables, constants and expressions accurately.
Lesson 11 · Control flow
Selection and Iteration in Java
Build programs that choose between paths and repeat work using if, switch, while and for.
Lesson 12 · Safer branching
If Statements, Determinism and Safer Control Flow
Use if statements deliberately by understanding control-flow traces, state explosion, guard clauses and clearer alternatives.
Lesson 13 · Structure
Methods and Decomposition
Split Java programs into small methods with parameters, return values and single responsibilities.
Lesson 14 · Data handling
Arrays, Strings and Input
Collect, validate and process simple data using arrays, strings and scanner-style input.
Lesson 15 · Testing
Testing, Debugging and Maintenance
Design tests, use debugging evidence and make small maintenance changes without breaking behaviour.
Lesson 16 · Data persistence
File I/O and Persistence
Read and write simple text files so program data can survive after the program closes.
Lesson 17 · Professional practice
Professional, Ethical and Legal Practice
Connect beginner programming choices to copyright, privacy, accessibility, security and professional responsibility.
Lesson 18 · Portfolio project
Portfolio Artefact 1: Console Application
Build a small console program from requirements through design, implementation, testing and reflection.
Lesson 19 · Portfolio review
Portfolio Artefact 2 and Review
Improve a second artefact with better structure, testing and maintenance evidence.