Object-Oriented Programming: Heterogeneous Collections in C++

This lecture focuses on the concept of heterogeneous collections in object-oriented programming using C++. It begins by discussing the importance of ownership in collections, emphasizing whether the collection should own its objects or if an external entity should manage them. The instructor highlights the use of smart pointers, particularly unique_ptr, to manage memory effectively in C++. The lecture then delves into practical implementations, showcasing how to create a heterogeneous collection of geometric figures, such as circles and rectangles. The instructor provides code examples demonstrating how to add figures to the collection and display them. Additionally, the lecture addresses the challenges of managing pointers and ensuring proper memory management to avoid leaks. The importance of defining clear interfaces for users of the collection is also discussed, along with the implications of different design choices. Overall, this lecture provides a comprehensive overview of implementing and managing heterogeneous collections in C++, equipping students with practical skills for their programming endeavors.