Title: Module 9 - Inheritance
Course: COP 2551 Intro to Object Oriented Prog > Section: Module 9 - Inheritance

Introduction

In this module, you will learn about inheritance, an important object-oriented construct. The logic of writing a class that will allow you or others to develop subclasses is a simple but very powerful way of designing reusable software. Class hierarchies can be created to maximize the usefulness of the classes you and others develop.

There are specific techniques for creating subclasses and class hierarchies, and you will learn how an abstract class works in a hierarchy. The technique for overriding the definition of an inherited method will be demonstrated. The protected modifier will be explained and you will study the effect all visibility modifiers have on inherited attributes and methods.

Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

- Explore the derivation of new classes from existing classes.
- Define the concept and purpose of method overriding.
- Discuss the design of class hierarchies.
- Discuss the issue of visibility as it relates to inheritance.
- Explore the ability to derive one interface from another.
- Discuss object-oriented design in the context of inheritance.

Readings & Resources

Chapter 9, Sections 1 - 5 Java Software Solutions: Foundations of Program Design, 8^th Ed., John Lewis and William Loftus.

Assignments and Activities

- Post to the Module 9 Discussion Board
- Complete the Module 9 Ungraded Activities
- Complete the Module 9 Quiz