Section outline

  • Overview: Lesson 2 is all about setting up the development environment. We ensure students (and parents) install Java 17 and IntelliJ IDEA properly, but also teach them how to compile and run Java without an IDE. The tone stays encouraging but instructional – by the end of this lesson, their “gear” (tools) will be ready for battle. We emphasize that after this, the focus will be on coding, and the IDE is just a helpful optional weapon, not a crutch.

    • Micro-Topic 1: Tools of the Trade – JDK, JRE, and IDE Explained

      Goal: Clarify the essential tools needed to write and run Java programs. Students learn what the JDK is, how it differs from a JRE, and the role of an IDE like IntelliJ. This demystifies the setup.

    • WB L2 1 Tools of the Trade FREE SCORM package

    • Micro-Topic 2: Installing JDK 17 – Your Java Power Source

      Goal: Walk through installing Java 17 (JDK) on the student’s machine. Ensure they can verify the installation (javac and java working). Emphasize that Java 17 is the foundation for all coding exercises.

    • WB L2 2 Installing JDK 17 FREE SCORM package

    • Micro-Topic 3: Installing IntelliJ IDEA – Your Coding Dojo

      Goal: Guide students through downloading and installing IntelliJ IDEA (Community Edition). Emphasize using the free Community Edition and basic initial setup. By the end, they can launch IntelliJ.

    • WB L2 3 Installing IntelliJ IDEA FREE SCORM package

    • Micro-Topic 4: First Project – Hello World in IntelliJ

      Goal: Create a simple “Hello World” project in IntelliJ IDEA to verify that the IDE and JDK are configured correctly. The student will run their first Java program through IntelliJ.

    • WB L2 4 Hello World in IntelliJ FREE SCORM package

    • Micro-Topic 5: No IDE? No Problem! – Compiling and Running Java from the Command Line

      Goal: Teach how to compile and run a Java program using just a text editor and command prompt/terminal. This reinforces what the IDE is doing behind the scenes and proves that students aren’t dependent on IntelliJ. After this, they’ll understand the Java toolchain more deeply.

    • WB L2 5 No IDE No Problem FREE SCORM package

    • Micro-Topic 6: Choosing Your Weapon – IDE vs. Plain Editor (Flexibility)

      Goal: Reinforce that after Lesson 2, students can choose any development approach. IntelliJ is recommended for convenience, but they are not locked in. Emphasize flexibility and that the skills are universal.

    • WB L2 6 Choosing Your Weapon FREE SCORM package