Creating instant messaging applications is a popular way for Java students to practice GUI development, threads, and networking, as all of these topics are necessary. In addition, we will also be practicing industry-style development practices. The class will be split into small groups (roughly six) and will be tasked with different areas of the application. Group work is MANDATORY, as you will find that in the Real World you will be required to work in groups often.
Additionally, we will begin with an introduction to git. git is a version control software widely used in the computer science industry as a development 'backup', where you 'commit' small changes regularly so you can revert to previous work if necessary. Additionally, the branching functionality allows a developer to work on a new feature without polluting working code. git is my friend, and will soon be yours as well.
git is not hard to learn, but incorrect usage can cause DEFCON Red Problems. There is a tutorial, created by GitHub, that will allow you to learn and practice using git. It would also make sense to install git on your own computer to use.
git preinstalled. If which git says git not found, you'll need to install git via your favorite package managerLars Vogel has written an extensive tutorial on using git on his Vogella website. I have noted several important sections to especially read:
Git Tutorial: Vogella Git Tutorial
There is another, more technical tutorial can be found on git's own website: