Stanford CS193P - Developing Applications for iOS using Swift UI

Introduction

• Lecturer: Paul Hegarty
• Duration: 13-14 years teaching this class.
• Format: Recorded screen demos from his laptop to assist students.
• Aim: To pour information progressively (one week at a time over 10 weeks).
• Course URL: cs193p.stanford.edu
  • Homework assignments available
  • Demo code provided after initial weeks

Course Structure and Content Overview

Course Focus

• Focus on Swift UI, with applications for iOS and potentially other platforms (macOS, watchOS, tvOS) towards the end of the quarter.
• Learning Outcomes: New programming language understanding, functional programming concepts, and a different approach to UI programming.

Programming Languages and Prerequisites

• Prerequisites:
  • Experience in coding (CS106A/B, 107, 108 suggested)
  • Understanding of structured programming methodology.
  • Familiarity with multiple programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, C++).
• Course Mechanics:
  • Use of Ed discussions on canvas for questions.
  • Focus on coding with practical applications rather than theoretical quizzes.

Learning Approach

Narrative vs. Vignette Learning

• Narrative Learning: Learning through the development of a complete app, providing context.
• Vignette Learning: Learning isolated pieces of functionality (searching for specific features online).
• Best Approach: A combination of both for effective understanding.

Course Logistics

• Assignments:
  • Six programming assignments in the first seven weeks.
  • Proposal submission for the final project.
  • Grading based on passing all assignments and the final project.
• Tools Required:
  • Installation of Xcode and setup of Apple ID/GitHub accounts.

Xcode Overview

• Xcode's various sections:
  • Simulator: Choose devices to run your apps.
  • Preview Pane: Real-time preview of UI changes.
  • Navigator Panel: Organizing project files and viewing navigational paths.
  • Inspector: Adjust settings for selected elements.
  • Debugging Console: View outputs and errors.

Course Content

Creating a Swift UI Application

App Concept: Memorize Game

• Building a Memory/Card Game application.
• Cards will be represented in a visually interactive way.
• Features include animation and effective scoring mechanics.

Code Structure and Swift Concepts

• Discussed the use of Structs in Swift (key building blocks for UI in Swift UI).
• Introduced functional programming concepts.
• Explained how to create and structure views, returning complex structures (like cards) using Swift syntax.
  • Example:
    • struct ContentView: View
• Promoted building blocks like VStack, HStack, and grids for structuring the UI.

Key Features of Swift UI

• Emphasized the concept of Behaving Like a View with properties and methods.
• Introduced the idea of Computed Properties.
• Used analogies (like Lego) to explain the importance of UIView Composition.
• Explained that UI modifications can be done through view modifiers to change appearance and behavior.

Next Steps and Future Lectures

• Upcoming classes focused on game logic separation and implementing the backend for the game.
• Noted no class on next Monday, with a continuation of concepts covered in the upcoming session.

Conclusion

• Encouraged students to explore the learning resources provided and to engage with the course material actively, both in lectures and assignments.