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Chapter 24: Object-Oriented Programming - Part 1

Overview​

This chapter introduces Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), a fundamental paradigm for organizing code around objects that bundle data (attributes) and behavior (methods) together. You'll learn why OOP matters for building scalable, maintainable applications—especially in AI-native development where agents themselves are objects with state and capabilities.

Starting from the limitations of procedural programming, you'll discover how OOP solves real-world problems through the four pillars: encapsulation, abstraction, inheritance, and polymorphism. Through practical examples ranging from bank accounts to AI agents, you'll build a solid foundation in class design, object creation, and method implementation.

The chapter culminates in a Game Character Capstone Project where you'll design and implement a multi-class system, integrating all the concepts learned into a cohesive, working application.

What You'll Build​

  • Bank account management system demonstrating OOP fundamentals
  • AI agent models showing objects with state and behavior
  • Multi-class game character system with combat mechanics and inventory management

Learning Outcomes​

By the end of this chapter, you will be able to:

1. Understand OOP Fundamentals​

  • Explain what Object-Oriented Programming is and how it differs from procedural programming
  • Identify the four pillars of OOP (Encapsulation, Abstraction, Inheritance, Polymorphism) in code examples
  • Analyze when to use OOP vs procedural approaches for different problem types
  • Evaluate why OOP matters for modularity, reusability, maintainability, and scalability in professional development

2. Create Classes and Objects​

  • Write Python class definitions with proper naming conventions (PascalCase) and docstrings
  • Implement constructors (__init__) that initialize attributes with type hints
  • Create multiple objects from a single class and verify they maintain independent state
  • Explain the role of self in instance methods and why Python requires it explicitly

3. Work with Attributes and Methods​

  • Define instance attributes and methods with appropriate access modifiers
  • Use type hints for constructor parameters, attributes, and method returns
  • Implement different method types (instance methods, class methods, static methods)
  • Apply encapsulation principles to protect data and control access

4. Design Multi-Class Systems​

  • Design interactions between multiple classes with clear responsibilities and data flow
  • Model object relationships (composition, association) in class architecture
  • Organize multi-class projects with proper module structure
  • Integrate OOP patterns (encapsulation, properties, methods) into cohesive systems

5. Apply OOP to AI-Native Development​

  • Connect OOP principles to AI agent-based systems (agents as objects with state and behavior)
  • Describe how modern AI frameworks use classes to represent models, agents, and tools
  • Collaborate with AI to design class structures and validate generated code
  • Plan projects by describing architecture to AI and refining design iteratively