Other Tutorials
Java -
One helpful place is Sun's tutorial at: http://java.sun.com/docs/books/tutorial/ Look over the material (you don't have to buy a book, just follow the links to various topics). Be aware that this material does not discuss a programming environment like Eclipse (except for Sun's environment or the rather dull command window). Read the next topic below for help on Eclipse. In the Sun tutorial, just focus on topics pertaining to the Java language. Note: since you're probably taking a Java course at Skidmore, then your text will provide for most of your needs. Use the Sun site for supplemental information.
A portal to other tutorials at: http://www.apl.jhu.edu/~hall/java/FAQs-and-Tutorials.html
Eclipse -
In the latest version of Eclipse, click on Help | Help Contents. In the browser window that opens, choose: Workbench User Guide | Getting Started | Basic tutorial. Read the beginning information to understand Eclipse's windows. Note: Eclipse is not a Java compiler. It is a programming environment that supports a number of programming languages and tools (and it comes with Java support already installed - note: you still need the SDK from Sun; see Getting Started | Installing Java for details from the menu at your right). One important topic in the Eclipse tutorial is Perspectives (it's farther down the list in the tutorial). The one perspective you'll use is the Java perspective - this is what you use to write and compile Java programs.
Now, close the Workbench User Guide and below that, open Java Development User Guide. Inside Getting Started is the Basic tutorial for Java. Study this section.