Comp Think: 2-27-2026

Homework Assignment

• Previously assigned homework was to read about Python and play around with it.

  • Chapter Count: Approximately four short chapters.

  • Method of Study: Reading should not be passive; students must actively implement examples and experiment to achieve learning.

  • Analogy: Learning programming is akin to training as a doctor—practical experience is vital.

Class Structure for Learning Python

• Emphasis on not starting to code prematurely—planning and modeling are important.

• Project Theme: Implementation of a virtual zoo.

  • Definition of a zoo and its virtual analogy involving computer memory and objects.

Project Details

• Class diagrams are essential, and students should follow a rigorous process when creating them.

• Project Deliverables:

  • Class diagrams and at least three dynamical diagrams are required (including one step motion diagram).

  • No exam scheduled as students have other midterms.

• Presentation Date: Scheduled for March 20, contingent on attendance.

Brainstorming Session

• Identifying Actors at the Zoo:

  • Main Actors:

  • Animals (land, water, air).

  • Zookeepers.

  • Patrons (including annual pass holders and regular patrons).

  • Focus on modeling animals in the zoo at this point.

Zoo Class Diagram Considerations

• Classes to Focus On:

  • Zoo.

  • Animals categorized by habitat: land, water, air.

  • Specialization can occur (e.g., mammals, reptiles, birds).

• Attributes for Animals:

  • Genus and species may be included.

  • Considerations for characteristics applicable across classifications of animals.

Hierarchies and Inheritance in Class Design

• Concept of generalization and specialization in class design:

  • Example of an "Animal" superclass with subclasses for specific types of animals (e.g., land animal, water animal).

• Classes can have common attributes such as:

  • Habitat (descriptive of type or specific location).

  • Food type.

Attributes & Characteristics Discussion

• Understanding attributes applicable to each subclass:

  • For land animals (e.g., fur): May be binary or variable (agreeing that fur is common or variable).

  • Water Animals: Gills and fins; can differentiate on sizes and shapes of these attributes.

• The challenge of specifying common characteristics vs. unique attributes among subclasses.

Methods in Class Design

• Each class should define its methods, such as:

  • Common methods (e.g., eating, breathing).

  • Discussions on virtual methods where subclasses can override behaviors.

• Patterns in animals can be treated as attributes that differentiate individuals.

Practical Discussion on Animal Methods

• Methods that may or may not share implementation across subclasses:

  • Example methods:

  • Die (common to all animals).

  • Reproduce (consideration for characteristics like live births or egg-laying).

  • All animals eat but may differ in the method or specifics.

Implementing Classes in Python

• Overview of syntax needed to create classes in Python:

  • Class definitions using the class keyword.

  • The use of self to signify instance methods.

• Example prohibition against mimicking Java's syntax (using 'public') in Python.

  • Explanation about object in Python as a high-level class that every object should inherit from.

Error Handling and Adjustments in Class Design

• Iterative design process: Constantly shifting attributes and methods as understanding deepens.

  • Importance of adjusting diagrams and class definitions to accurately reflect relationships and characteristics among classes.

Conclusion of Class Discussion

• Students are encouraged to begin implementing their designs in Python after fully developing their class diagrams, not rushing into coding.

• Reiterate necessity of continuous reading and practice for improving understanding and execution in Python programming.