Fall 2007 - Course Goals
- To analyze specific audiences and rhetorical situations in the design of large-scale websites.
- To apply the principles of information architecture to the creation of intuitive navigation systems and a seamless user experience.
- To learn how extensible hypertext markup language (XHTML) renders web pages and supports the use of graphics, video, and other media.
- To learn the basics of visual design and production as they relate to web photographs and graphic images.
Textbooks
- Castro, Elizabeth. (2007). HTML For the World Wide Web, with XHTML and CSS. 6th Edition. Berkely, CA: Peachpit Press.
- Krug, Steve. (2006). Don’t make me think: A common sense approach to Web usability. 2nd ed. Indianapolis: New Riders.
- Negrino, Tom, and Dori Smith. (2007). Dreamweaver CS3. Berkely, CA: Peachpit Press.
Software
I recommend using Dreamweaver CS3 as your site authoring tool, though you may use any Web editor you want. Course instruction, however, will be geared only to Dreamweaver, so if you use another program, you're on your own. Dreamweaver is available in the Memorial Union bookstore for $100. For image production and editing, we will be using Photoshop CS3.
Attendance
Because this is a computer-based writing class, it is important that you attend class on a regular basis in order to build your skills in writing HTML. I understand that things come up during the semester. Therefore I allow three (3) unexcused absence; that's all. Each absence beyond that will reduce your final grade substantially. Six (6) or more absences during the semester will result in automatic failure.
Participation
During class, you must show evidence that you have read the textbook assignments by being able to discuss them intelligently in class and to apply the lessons to web page construction. In addition, you must complete regular HTML assignments (some in class), as well as an oral presentation of your final web site design.
Meetings
You are always welcome to make an appointment during the class office hours listed at the foot of this page. Rather than just dropping by, it usually works better if you schedule an appointment ahead of time so we can both prepare for our discussion. However, you are still welcome to just drop by if you have an urgent need to talk. You can also make appointments outside of office hours if your schedule conflicts with these hours.
Late Assignments
Avoid them. However, you can receive an extension for good cause if you submit a formal memo via email before the assignment is due. In this memo, you should explain the reason for the delay and propose a reasonable deadline (less than one week), which you will then be expected to meet. This memo will serve as a contract between the two of us; failure to meet the new deadline violates terms of the contract and results in a failing grade for that assignment. You can submit late assignments no more than twice during the semester. Oral presentations are excluded from this option and are due on the assigned date.
Academic Honesty
Unless you are working with others on a collaborative assignment, the work you turn in for this class must be your own. If you use others' work without crediting them, you will receive a failing grade for the assignment, and most likely for the course. While you certainly can ask for feedback from others, you should not allow anyone to write any part of your assignment for you. For further information, see the ISU Student Handbook's discussion of academic dishonesty.
Disabilities
If you have a documented disability and anticipate needing accommodations in this course, please make arrangements to meet with me soon. Also, please make sure a Disability Resources staff member sends me an SAAR form verifying your disability and specifying the accommodation you will need. The DR office is located on the main floor of the Students Services Building, Room 1076, ph. 294-7220; TTY: 294-6635 I look forward to working with you and will try my best to accommodate your needs.