Java Archive

Well-structured, modular code in the Java language

If you work on large-scale development projects, then you're familiar with the advantages of writing modular code. Well-structured, modular code is easier to write, debug, understand, and reuse. The problem for Java developers is that the functional programming paradigm has long been implemented only via specialized languages such as Haskell, Scheme, Erlang, and Lisp. This article, shows you how to use functional programming constructs such as closures and higher order functions to write well-structured, modular code in the Java language.

A New Direction for Java

Where exactly is Java technology going? It all depends on which aspect of Java one chooses. No doubt, this open platform presents many opportunities—and a few roadblocks—to IT innovators and customers. Elsewhere, this blog entry discusses the problems that SUN is facing how they should be addressed.

Jython for Python and Java developers

Jython is an alternate languages for the Java Runtime Environment. Its an implementation of the popular scripting language Python, but running on a JVM. For Python developers Jython is the best possible entry point to the Java platform; for Java developers it may be the strongest incentive to learn another language. This article introduces Jython and shows you what it can do to enhance your productivity on the Java platform.

On Sun, Java and Open Source

Analysis Sun says open sourcing Java code will fragment and devalue the platform. Sun's opponents say that under the current community process development is too slow. They're both right, but the debate, which Scott McNealy regards as synthetic - an issue manufactured by hypocritical competitors - highlights what people really want from a technology. It's an issue that finds Sun on the right side, but failing to convince skeptics. Read the rest of the analysis at TheRegister.

Stretch your Java Skills with this new Animated Graphical Simulator

There's a good tips and tricks article about CodeRuler on developerworks. The game has a simple premise: You are the imperial ruler of your very own medieval kingdom. Your peasants and knights depend on your brilliant strategic thinking, agile adaptability, and superior Java programming skill to survive, increase, and prosper. Your objective as a player is to write Java code that simulates this ruler. CodRuler is a game that helps you build upon your Java programming skills. CodeRuler is free.

Is Java Cooling Off?

A ZDNet article notes that Sun's JavaOne conference, starting today, will likely have a more somber mood than the one in 2000, when Java was seemingly ruling the world. Sun is facing a two-front assault by Microsoft and Open Source, and though its Java platform is a bright spot in its business plan, many users are clamoring for Sun to cede more control over its direction or even free the source code. Some major Java vendors like BEA and IBM are bypassing Sun's "Java Community Process" and releasing Java extensions on their own.