Collections

Programming basics

A collection — sometimes called a container — is simply an object that groups multiple elements into a single unit. Collections are used to store, retrieve, manipulate, and communicate aggregate data. Typically, they represent data items that form a natural group, such as a poker hand (a collection of cards), a mail folder (a collection of letters), or a telephone directory (a mapping of names to phone numbers). If you have used the Java programming language — or just about any other programming language — you are already familiar with collections.

Standards

• Describe the characteristics and applications of a collection.
• Construct algorithms using the access methods of a collection.
• Discuss the need for sub-programmes and collections within programmed solutions.
• Construct algorithms using pre-defined sub-programmes, one-dimensional arrays and/or collections.

Give a detailed account or picture of a situation, event, pattern or process.

Develop information in a diagrammatic or logical form.

Offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of arguments, factors or hypotheses. Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.