Prerequisites

Prerequisite #1: Foundation in programming

This course builds upon the material covered in DGMD E-2 Web Programming for Beginners with PHP and is a recommended prerequisite.

However, students with a strong programming background may decide to skip and go directly to this course, assuming you feel comfortable with the following topics:

• Command line usage (SSH, file manipulation, directory traversal)
• Git Version Control
• Fundamental programming concepts:
  • Variables
  • Data types
  • Conditionals
  • Loops
  • Functions
  • Classes/Objects
  • Debugging and programatic thinking

Prerequisite #2: HTML/CSS and basic web site publishing skills

It is expected that you come into this course with a solid grasp of modern HTML/CSS and basic web site publishing.

If you’re unsure whether you’re qualified, here are some bullet points you can check your skills against:

• You can build a basic web site in HTML and CSS.
• You know how to publish a site online, including working on a shared server and setting up a domain name.
• You know what an HTML tag, element and attribute is, as well as the difference between these terms.
• You know the difference between absolute and relative paths when setting up images, links, and linking assets (like CSS and JavaScript).
• You know the difference between inline, internal, and external CSS as well as the pros and cons of each.
• You’re not necessarily an expert at CSS layouts, but you understand the basics about how to position things on the page.

For HTML/CSS skills, Harvard Extension’s CSCI E-12 Fundamentals of Website Development is a logical precursor to this course.

Your experience can also come from non-HES courses, self-taught study, on the job experience, etc.

More info

This course is not an introductory course to coding, and prior experience with the following fundamental programming concepts is expected:

• Data types (including Objects)
• Variables
• Expressions and operators
• Functions and closures
• Debugging and programatic thinking

If you are new to coding, I suggest starting out in my other course, DGMD E-2 Web Programming for Beginners.