(2) Abstract

This introductory lecture gives the motivation for the course, the organization of the course, a high-level overview of the course's topics, and an overview of the assignments which are an important part of the course program.

(3) Course Setup

• Broad overview of core Web technologies
  • this is not a Web design or Web programming course
• Assignments [a/] working with various Web technologies
  • how to deliver client-specific content
  • how to design client-specific styles
  • using Ajax for creating more dynamic Web pages
  • repurposing existing content for Content Syndication [Content Syndication]
• Grading is based on assignments and final exam (30min oral)
  • the assignments [a/] cover most of the topics in the course
  • all assignments have an optional part for extra credit

(4) Course Goals

• Understanding how the Web works
• Publishing information on the Web
• Providing services on the Web
• Managing information on the Web
  • lectures focus on principles and technologies
  • assignments focus on applications
  • tools are important but secondary
• An Overview of the Web as an Open Information System

(5) What this Course Is Not

• Not a skills course
  • You will get some hands-on experience, but you won't learn to be a web developer
• Not a visual design course
  • Design in the sense of architectural pattern, not design in the sense of visual layout
  • But knowing architectural principles is a prerequisite for good interaction design on the Web

(6) Building Blocks of the Web