Polymorphism discussion

I just started going for my bachelors degree in computer science(which means i have to rehash some basic concepts).:rolleyes: and my teacher wanted us to show some coding examples of polymorphism. Here is my attempt. Would anyone like to show
any of their examples and or tips. :)

Code:

---

import java.util.*;

 public class X {
  public static void main(String[] args){
    Vector v = new Vector();
    v.addElement(new Superhero());
    v.addElement(new Sidekick());
   
    Iterator i = v.iterator(); 
    while(i.hasNext()){
      Superhero s = (Superhero)i.next();
        s.printStatus(); 
    }
  }
  }
 class Superhero {
  public void printStatus(){
    System.out.println("I am the super hero!");
  }
 }
 class Sidekick extends Superhero{
  public void printStatus(){
    System.out.println("I am a side kick!");
  }
 }

---

Dont forget that overloading is a form of polymorphism.

I sort of disagree with your example. A sidekick should not be an extension of a super hero, you may need to add a class called person.

Person
Super Hero Side Kick Evil Villian (Bill who?)

Do you agree disagree?

The greatest thing I think poly gives a programmer is the ability to adapt to things.

The oldie but goodie shape example:

Say I have a shape class that has a draw method.
I then go on to make two new subclasses Circle and Rectangle, and give them their own draw method. Later I decide I need to support Triangles, so I create a new subclass called Triangle and with its own draw method. I didnt have to change any pre existing code to add support of triangles. Now that is a beautiful thing.

Yes i totaly agree with you in the respect that a sidekick should not be an extension of a superhero. As you have pointed out a superhero should probably be an extension of a person.