Hi Guys,
I have been visiting this site for quite a while, mainly the development forum, but have not really contributed that much due to my lack of knowledge in Android Development.
I want to change this and am interested in taking a course to learn how to develop in the Android OS.
Is anybody aware of any courses I could take that are based solely online (ie, no classroom work needed)? Bearing in mind that I have no real programming knowledge to start with so will need an "A-Z" course. I am based in the UK so UK sites would be preferential.
I have done a Google search but to be honest there are so many different companies out there I was wondering if anyone had any first hand experiences?
Cheers
You can teach yourself, find some textbooks (I won't tell you where) online and start reading, download eclipse and netbeans, do some reading about object-oriented programming and being learning the basics of java, start trying to develop applications in eclipse (you will need to download all of the appropriate SDK's, Java, Android, etc), there are plenty of starter posts called "How to program Android" etc. located on the various android forums on the net- I would suggest just jumping in and reading as much as you can. I did, I'm not a full-fledged developer, but I am now capable of programming applications and understanding source code. I need to get acquainted with GitHub now so I can actually begin working on open-source projects, and I have a ton of learning to do myself, but that will take you a long way from being a noob.
luna_c666 said:
You can teach yourself, find some textbooks (I won't tell you where) online and start reading, download eclipse and netbeans, do some reading about object-oriented programming and being learning the basics of java, start trying to develop applications in eclipse (you will need to download all of the appropriate SDK's, Java, Android, etc), there are plenty of starter posts called "How to program Android" etc. located on the various android forums on the net- I would suggest just jumping in and reading as much as you can. I did, I'm not a full-fledged developer, but I am now capable of programming applications and understanding source code. I need to get acquainted with GitHub now so I can actually begin working on open-source projects, and I have a ton of learning to do myself, but that will take you a long way from being a noob.
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Thanks for the advice. The problem with me taking it on myself is that...well...I wont do it! I have 9 or 10 Learn Linux books on my shelf and have read maybe three pages out of them.
This is why I was wondering if there was any online courses I could take, which would guide me through step by step from start to finish. I appreciate it may be more expensive this way but I feel it is the best way for me to learn
The toolset for creating Android apps while easy for a programmer to pick up, is probably not the best for first steps in programming IMHO but it can be done.
FWIW On the side of "Java" and "Android" sides, I would suggest picking up a copy of "Java in a nutshell". learning the concept of Model/View/Controller (MVC), and inhaling Google's website on Android development. Each will be useful at some point in your growth.
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Spidey01 said:
The toolset for creating Android apps while easy for a programmer to pick up, is probably not the best for first steps in programming IMHO but it can be done.
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Okay, so what do you think the best start to programming is? I really feel it is something I would love to learn. I realize it will be a big challenge...but I think I am up for it
Go for it!!!
I would recommend getting to know a bit of Java first. The Java Tutorials found on the Oracle website are an excellent place to start. I've been learning to program for Android for the past month or so, it's hard going, but very rewarding.
bendonahue said:
Okay, so what do you think the best start to programming is? I really feel it is something I would love to learn. I realize it will be a big challenge...but I think I am up for it
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Eh, for years I have debated between Assembly and shell script depending on the goal. Programming languages are only a slice if the craft.
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Related
Does anyone in here have experience designing Android Apps?
I am very good with computers, very, very little programming experience, but I have an idea for an app that I would really like to create.
So how hard is the first app? I'm going to download the SDK today when i get home and do some reading and see what I can figure out..
I wish I could get someone I knew and trusted to help me out, but I'd be scared they'd try to steal my idea and cut me out of the loop...
If you have little coding knowledge then how do you expect to be able to code an application.
Agreed, if you have no programming experience then you've got no hope. Although Android apps are coded in Java (therefore a nice OO language which is fairly easy to learn) you still need experience imo.
Anyone can learn to program but it takes time and effort. Leave Android for the moment and learn Java first. A starting point would be here http://java.sun.com/docs/books/tutorial/getStarted/index.html
Once you're comfortable with Java, then move onto Android.
I also recommend you to read up on java, here's a good tutorial.
http://www.homeandlearn.co.uk/java/java.html
They use NetBeans instead of the famous and google supported Eclipse.
But you must first understand Java and programming in general.
im also interested in making an app, and have experience with java. is java the only language that you can use for android? how about jython, since my python is better than my java, it would be best to use that...
i guess i'll start by dl'ing the sdk lol
I think as long as you have an interest in it, and have some aptitude for coding, then you can learn basic programming for android pretty quickly.
I only had really basic programming knowledge, and I managed to get an Android app out - admittedly it's simple (calculation type app), but it's a starting point.
I would recommend having a look around the internet like code.google.com to check out some source code for programs similar to what you would like to write. Also the developers site http://developer.android.com/index.html has some good examples and guides - definitely worth reading.
I've been using appinventor.. I wish making a real app was this easy.. Of course it's just basic things that really nobody would buy, but it's neat to create apps without experience.
hello everyone. my goal is to become an android rom/ app developer. right now im currently attending college for my bachelors in Computer Science. right now im still working on my AA so its going to be a while before i even get into the field. ive researched online about linux and learned the basic codes in terminal to move files, delete them etc. but of course i dont think these codes apply to android.
im not trying to learn all this by myself but i atleast want a basic idea of the type of things im going to be learning.
so far ive downloaded android sdk and eclipse on my ubuntu linux netbook.
do you guys know of any websites that can help me get started or at least point me in the right direction in getting started on my first android rom or app.
thanks
Start with building your first hello in eclipse.
The best place to start is right on the Android site. Watch all the videos and get ready to read lots.
They have tutorials and step by step instructions for your first hello app.
BTW they tell you to break it so you have to fix it.
My biggest obstacle is just doing it.
http://android.voxisland.com has a good set of down and dirty introduction videos to app development for Android. Also, developer.android.com. A lot of that knowledge is pretty essential when doing any other kind of Android devving.
pick up some basic java and you'll have a nice head start.
If your looking for examples you can find them here
[can't post links]
developer.android.com/guide/samples/index.html
I wouldn't pay for videos from some jackasses website - plenty of free java tutorials out there to get you started.
www.anddev.org is a good site
You will need to learn the basic codes in terminal to move files, delete them, etc.
These codes apply to Android.
thanks guys for the replys. im going to start looking for tutorials for java using eclipse.
the android.dev.com pages and anddev.org show me how to make apk files. what im trying to find out is how to make roms and mess with kernels and such. how would the java and apk's tie into that?
I've got the same doubt as ripmeck. I didn't know where to ask for help, so I came here.
And I looked into all the replies, thanks for the help guys.
Unlike ripmeck, its already been two years since I've finished my bachelors.
I'm pretty okay with C programming that includes pointers, structures, etc., (but only the basics of all concepts, cause i know how deep and confusing the root goes).
And I'm slightly familiar with Eclipse, as I have done simple (very simple) java programs in it. Programs that makes use of exception handlers, multithreading etc.,
But I'm not so strong in Java (cause it has got lot more features than C and I couldn't remember it all and make use of it, I've got used to the linear style of coding without making use of any classes ).
My question is:
Should I have to get myself very strong in java before started coding for android app or can I eventually learn the java language in parallel with android development?
There was a thread posted by Cyanogen on XDA called 'some advice' with lots of good info on what you need to get started. Sorry I don't have a link since I'm mobile right now. My suggestion is to find that thread and start there.
Here are some steps vaguely describing what you need. Each is a never ending process.
1. Understand Linux/Unix
2. Understand Android
3. Make something.
My advice is to learn everything you can. Read around XDA and tackle learning each bit individually.
Learn ADB, make some themes or mods using metamorph, learn how to sign files and build update.zip files. Most importantly, have fun.
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The subject says most of it really. I'm looking for a book that will teach me to develop for the Android market. A book for beginners. The kind of book with lessons, tasks, examples etc..
I'm a complete novice when it comes to Android Development, I've no understanding of the Java programming language at all and only minimal xml knowledge. However I am very good with computers and learn quick, I've got the time the patience and the motivation + (a Samsung Nexus S & a HTC Desire S).
I know it takes time and practise but its something I really want to learn and have plenty of time on my hands at the moment.
I've done webdesign so understand html, css, online shopping carts etc.. not that that's going to help me a lot.
Maybe I'll need a couple of books one for Java and another for Android please provide your thoughts on this.
Any suggestions maybe with links (if allowed) would be greatly appreciated.
Many thanks in advance.
Marc
aka - NexusCrazy
Though I've no links to books which you could buy..
Android applications are written in Java (J2SE, not a pared-down Java Mobile/Micro (Java ME) as found on many low-end phones) using an open-source J2SE implementation based on Apache Harmony along with tons of Android-specific libraries for things like UI and handy third-party libraries for things like HTTP requests and JSON parsing. That Java code is compiled and then transformed into Android-specific files in a format called .dex, and runs on the phone in a highly optimized VM runtime called Dalvik. Luckily, you’ll almost never have to think about any of those pieces in between writing your code and running it on the phone, since the tools take care of them for you.
You’ll want a recent version (3.4 or 3.5) of the Eclipse IDE (Integrated Development Environment) for J2SE, the Android SDK, and the Eclipse ADT plugin to interface with those tools and provide project templates. Be sure to check out Google’s complete installation instructions for details.
Here are some other links to get you started;
http://www.codeproject.com/KB/android/AndroidGuide.aspx
Android Developers website
Have fun programming,
Senax
I just started out and the android developer site is really awesome. I come here for regular roaming looking for answers.
They have a bunch of "real" tutorials that is a step by step building apps like a picture that you touch and it makes a noise, to this pic call app and etc.
I just started my first CS class and we are using "Java: How To Program" 8th. But I have researched these forums looking for the same question.
The most up to date forums that had recommended books:
Beginning Android, Head First and The Dummies Android Book. Although most of the stuff i read said the android site has pretty much everything you need to know and that books will help with getting to know the basics!
What about roms?
im going through a similar phase in my life with wanting to learn about Android and im downloading the ebooks to my rooted nook color now.. What would be the first few steps in just building a rom... im not interested as much in building programs... but i am a flashaholic.
The best book to learn about android development hasnt been published yet. I geuss thats just because you cant publish XDA Forums xD
Hopefully you're a pro by now, but if not, I picked up "Hello Android" today from Amazon, and it has received a lot of positive reviews.
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From my perspective I knew nothing about Java/Android, but I had a couple other programming languages under my belt. Just jumping into tutorials really helped me more than any reading material. Also there are a ton of helpful stackoverflow posts related to android, so if you get stuck a quick google search will usually help you out
Tutorials are best
Books help, but i like tutorials because they are direct information with real cases
unusualbob said:
From my perspective I knew nothing about Java/Android, but I had a couple other programming languages under my belt. Just jumping into tutorials really helped me more than any reading material. Also there are a ton of helpful stackoverflow posts related to android, so if you get stuck a quick google search will usually help you out
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That's the way i took .
I knew C, SystemC, some bash and C++.
Started with the hello world tutorial and then i just dove in with an idea.
API documentation, StackOverflow and Google eventually got me where i wanted to be.
Then just repeat this process often enough with other ideas and will get comfortable with writing android apps.
But the android sdk is vast and i still find something cool and new everyday.
Also try #android-dev on freenode irc.
I took a couple of courses on C++, Java, and one in C. However, I really get lost when I look at how Android apps are developed. Also has anyone tried mobile development tools?
Hello, xdaDevelopers (Is it like that? Or XDADevelopers, or XdaDevelopers, well, doesn't matter, you can leave your opinion about that here, too.)!
I can see this is kinda a common thing around here, but, I really need the basics for programming, with a final goal of being able to make code for Android (from APKs to ROMs and such).
I just need people to point out good sources of learning, with a learning curve, please, that would be a great bonus in understanding what the heck I'm learning, from the basic of basic, to the goal here intended.
Maybe this is a bit too ambitious, but I pretend to be a professional programmer in the future, but I still have a kinda long way to college (3 years), and I wish I could start sooner that, it could even make my college life even simpler.
Well, I hope you leave your enlightenment in this thread. Thank you very much for any opinion given here.
*bump* Sorry. It was already in the second page. I just didn't want it to fall into oblivion.
Well your going to have to stsrt learnibg java if you want to make apps. Read some books. Also take a look at thenewboston channel on youtube.
Im learning myself. You just need to start and don't give up
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I'm also posting (lazy way of subscribing to this post). I knew java, although it was long ago. I'd need a refresh on everything. And then, knowing java is not the only thing you need, as you also need to know how to develop for android itself. Up to date, which book would you guys consider the most easy to follow to learn easily to program?
Thank you!
Yes. I'm asking for links or books (preferably e-books) that could have all that information. I just hope I can become a great XDA developer.
Griffrez said:
I just need people to point out good sources of learning
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+1 to this. i would also like to get into learning how to develop for android.
google has a lot of info on their developers page, it's probably one of the better places to start.
i don't know many other good websites or books though. anyone have suggestions?
If you want to develop Application on Android. You will need...
1.JDK (Java Development Kit), which includes the JRE. ( I use Java SE 7 )
2.Eclipse with the Android Development ( I use Eclipse Classic 3.7.1 )
3.Android Development tools ADT Plugin for Eclipse
( I use android-sdk_r13-windows.zip )
more detail http://androidcontrol.blogspot.com/2011/10/android-development.html
java for the user interface "pretty" part of the apps, but the real heavy-lifting guts of the app (where the real magic happens) will normally be written in c
Tech_Boy said:
Well your going to have to stsrt learnibg java if you want to make apps. Read some books. Also take a look at thenewboston channel on youtube.
Im learning myself. You just need to start and don't give up
Sent from my Galaxy SII
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I'm watching these. These are great. Starting with Java Development.
I was wondering what developers thought about using eclipse. Is it easy to use or is it not. When I look online most veteran programmers say its easy to pick up but when I tried it seem kind of tough. I read an articule about it here
http://eclipseandriod.blogspot.com/
The author seem to think it was tough but easy at same time which left me confused. What do you think?
I had very few problems getting set up to develop using Eclipse for Android Development.
Perhaps if you can give some details of the problems you are experiencing we could provide some guidance.
GingerBiscuit said:
I had very few problems getting set up to develop using Eclipse for Android Development.
Perhaps if you can give some details of the problems you are experiencing we could provide some guidance.
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Same idea here. Just give some examples where you feel stuck and maybe we could help.
I think it really depends on your programming background. If you dont know Java, no IDE in the world is going to be easy to learn, however, if you do know Java and can understand how android layout are defined, then Eclipse is easy and straightforward!
Basically I dont know Java programming and Iam used to using visual tools like level editors where you can just code on the object after you place it on the screen. Are there any level editor type tools for eclipse?
The reason why Android uses Java is because the original goals of android was to make a fast spreading, open source smartphone OS that seats Google as the default search engine. Java had/has the largest community of developers. Because Android uses Java, applications can reuse lots of already written Java code saving programmers tons of time that it would've taken to rewrite in whatever other language they would have chosen.
As for a beginner trying to make an Android app -- there's no way to get around the coding. It could be much, much harder. Java's really popular and well documented language with lots of books on it. Learning it would be easier than lots of other languages they could've used.