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Introduction to Python Programming

11.1 Object-oriented programming basics

Introduction to Python Programming11.1 Object-oriented programming basics

Learning objectives

By the end of this section you should be able to

  • Describe the paradigm of object-oriented programming (OOP).
  • Describe the concepts of encapsulation and abstraction as they relate to OOP, and identify the value of each concept.

Grouping into objects

Object-oriented programming (OOP) is a style of programming that groups related fields, or data members, and procedures into objects. Real-world entities are modeled as individual objects that interact with each other. Ex: A social media account can follow other accounts, and accounts can send messages to each other. An account can be modeled as an object in a program.

Checkpoint

Using objects to model social media

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Concepts in Practice

OOP

1.
Consider the example above. Which is a field in Ellis's 12/18/23 post?
  1. Ellis's followers list
  2. Ellis's username
2.
What does an object typically model in object-oriented programming?
  1. program code
  2. real-world entity

Encapsulation

Encapsulation is a key concept in OOP that involves wrapping data and procedures that operate on that data into a single unit. Access to the unit's data is restricted to prevent other units from directly modifying the data. Ex: A ticket website manages all transactions for a concert, keeping track of tickets sold and tickets still available to avoid accidental overbooking.

Checkpoint

Encapsulating concert ticket information

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Concepts in Practice

Encapsulation

3.
Consider the example above. Suppose the venue has to be changed due to inclement weather. How should a programmer change the website object to allow changes to the Venue field?
  1. Add a procedure to change the field.
  2. Allow users direct access to the field.
  3. No valid way to allow changes to the field.
4.
Which is a benefit of encapsulation when developing complex programs?
  1. All objects can easily access and modify each other's data.
  2. Each object's data is restricted for intentional access.

Abstraction

Abstraction is a key concept in OOP in which a unit's inner workings are hidden from users and other units that don't need to know the inner workings. Ex: A driver doesn't usually need to know their car engine's exact, numerical temperature. So the car has a gauge to display whether the engine temperature is within an appropriate range.

Checkpoint

Abstracting data in a countdown calculator

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Concepts in Practice

Abstraction

5.
Consider the car example in the paragraph above. Suppose the designer decided to remove the engine temperature indicator. Would this be a good use of abstraction?
  1. yes
  2. no
6.
Which is a benefit of abstraction?
  1. improved view of information
  2. high visibility of information
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