Codecademy Web Fundamentals Series and Reflections (20%, 20 points)
This semester you will work through four or more modules from Codecademy's Web Fundamentals Series. Think of these as self-paced tutorials for gaining experinece with basic HTML and CSS. You will have time to work on each module in class, but completing the exercises may require time outside of class. Provided you use the same username and password each time you access the site, Codecademy will keep track of your progress. In addition to completing the modules, I ask that you keep a log or journal in which you make notes on your experience with a Codecademy session. For the purposes of sharing your journal with others, It's best if you keep it electronically in a Google Doc, but if you prefer a different approach, you should discuss it with me early on. Handwritten notes, for example, can be easier to reference while you are also working at a screen, but they can become difficult to search over time. At four intervals—at the conclusion of each module, essentially—you will produce a reflection of approximately 500 words that discusses your experience, that notes items that remain confusing, and that chronicles successes and obstacles along the way. Completed modules and reflective statements are due as follows:
Wed., Sept. 19 - Codecademy Web Fundamentals - 1.Build A Webpage and Reflection
Wed., Oct. 3 - Codecademy Web Fundamentals - 2.More HTML and Basic Styling and Reflection
Mon., Oct. 22 - Codecademy Web Fundamentals - 3.Style Webpages with CSS and Reflection
Wed., Nov. 14 - Codecademy Web Fundamentals - 4.Advanced CSS Selectors and Reflection
The modules are designed to provide basic grounding while also flexing to meet your personal goals for the course. You will likely notice when you sign up for Codecademy access that there are a number of other Web Fundamentals modules on CSS Positioning and Javascript in addition to other classes on Python, jQuery, and JavaScript. You are not obligated to explore these modules and exercises, but if you want to, you are welcome to do so.
Successfully completing each module and turning in an adequately developed reflective statement for each of the four modules listed above will earn full credit. Late or incomplete work will not be eligible for full credit. When you have completed each module, turn in the corresponding reflective statement (along with a screen shot to document that you have finished the module) to EMU Online's Dropbox.
Contact Information
Derek N. Mueller, PhDAssociate Professor of Rhetoric and Writing
Director of Composition
Department of English
Virginia Tech
Office: 315 Shanks Hall
Spring 2020 Office Hours: T, 12-3
Phone: +1-734-985-0485
dmueller@vt.edu
http://derekmueller.net/rc/
