The Scala programming language uses a combination of object-oriented and functional programming in a unified language. Its static type set prevents bugs in complex coding, while this JavaScript and JVM runtime enables high-performing systems that enjoy access to a vast ecosystem of libraries.
Why would a Java developer learn Scala?
Some developers have to learn it as part of a new role, or your systems architect may incorporate it into your existing toolset. There are other reasons that are useful to know.
Scala is one of the most powerful Java alternatives and has replaced Groovy and Clojure as the Java Virtual Machine language of choice.
Scala’s multi-paradigm language has exceptional functional programming idioms that Java developers love, thanks to the use of its multi-core CPU architecture, Scala retains the fluency and flexibility of a dynamic language such as Python.
So, let’s look at 5 reasons to learn Scala.
- Multi-Paradigm Language:
Unlike Java, Scala supports both Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) and Functional Programming (FP). Learning Scala gives developers an opportunity to enhance their programming skills as it combines logical, imperative, functional, and OOP methodologies.
- Interoperability with Java:
Since Scala works with Java, there is no need to choose one over the other. You can use the best of both languages to accomplish what you want to do in your applications. Scala works efficiently on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) and integrates well with Java code. It makes it possible for a Scala developer to use Java libraries within the Scala code structure.
- Best Practices and Patterns:
Scala was developed at a Swiss university called EPFL and was designed to incorporate innovations from multiple languages with the hope that it would one day gain mainstream appeal. Many best practices and patterns are embedded in the language. The command declares top-level immutability instead of the overloaded final used in Java or the const/read-only command in C# with its complex rules.
- Growing Framework:
Scala is taking off in a big way. It has a multitude of attractive libraries, and its frameworks are evolving rapidly. Companies implementing Scala are publishing best practices and samples online, where other companies are learning to appreciate Scala’s flexible infrastructure.
- Relatively Easy to Learn:
Java developers can learn Scala more easily than more traditional functional languages like OCaml or Haskell. Its OOP functionality is intuitive and hence easy to maintain and use. It also means you’ll probably make fewer mistakes and implement Scala in your applications with less frustration and ease.
Java developers quickly take advantage of their familiarity with OOP syntax to get Scala up and running.
Both Scala and Java have clean syntax, versatile libraries, online support, and documentation through communities. Whatever is holding you back from trying Scala, now is a great time to try it. Check out online forums to see what everyone is talking about, and you’ll soon appreciate the magnificence of this language, too. It’s easy to get help and find answers to many questions while you’re learning.
Hopefully, I think this information is helpful for you.
However, if you want to find out more details, be sure to check out our Java and Scala course to learn more about this.
