Course Objectives:

The objectives of this course are to:

  1. Equip students with a basic knowledge of web technology and content management systems (CMS).
  2. Provide practical skills for developing and managing dynamic websites using CMS tools.
  3. Teach students how to analyze and evaluate web content management techniques.
  4. Familiarize students with the role of dynamic sites and their increasing importance in modern web design.
  5. Enable students to convert a static design into a dynamic CMS-powered website.

Overall Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

  1. Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of web technologies and the role of CMS in modern web development.
  2. Develop and manage websites using specialized CMS tools such as Joomla and MS SharePoint.
  3. Analyze and apply web content management techniques in different web development scenarios.
  4. Assess the role of dynamic websites in shaping the future of web design and development.
  5. Convert a static website design into a dynamic CMS-powered site, integrating content management and user interactivity.

Detailed Course Content:

Module 1: Introduction to Web Development and CMS

  • Overview of web development technologies: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP.
  • Introduction to Content Management Systems (CMS) and their importance.
  • Popular CMS platforms: Joomla, MS SharePoint, WordPress, and others.

Module 2: CMS Tools and Technologies

  • Design and creation of websites using specialized CMS tools.
  • Introduction to the features and functionalities of CMS platforms (e.g., Joomla, MS SharePoint).
  • Reviewing and evaluating CMS tools in terms of client requirements and usability.

Module 3: Front-End and Back-End Development in CMS

  • Developing front-end (client-side) interfaces using CMS tools.
  • Server-side (back-end) development and CMS integration.
  • Working with themes, templates, and user interfaces.

Module 4: Web Design and User Experience (UX)

  • Importance of user experience in web design and accessibility standards.
  • Designing websites that are mobile-friendly and accessible.
  • Implementing web standards and responsive design principles.

Module 5: CMS Programming and Extending Functionality

  • Introduction to CMS programming concepts and languages (PHP, JavaScript, etc.).
  • Developing custom plugins or extensions that integrate with existing CMS systems.
  • Enhancing website functionality through modules, widgets, and extensions.

Module 6: Website Content Management

  • Managing and auditing content for websites.
  • Setting up a CMS for content creation, publishing, and maintenance.
  • Managing media files, SEO settings, and content updates.

Module 7: Converting Static Sites to Dynamic CMS-Powered Sites

  • Techniques for transforming static website designs into CMS-based dynamic websites.
  • Migrating content and integrating database-driven functionality.
  • Hands-on practice in converting static sites into dynamic, interactive sites.

Module 8: Deployment and Maintenance

  • Deploying CMS-based websites on live servers.
  • Ongoing maintenance and updates for CMS-powered sites.
  • Securing CMS platforms and ensuring optimal performance.

Teaching/Learning Methods:

  • Lectures: Introduction to theoretical concepts, principles, and tools for CMS web development.
  • Lab Work: Hands-on exercises involving the creation, management, and customization of CMS websites.
  • Case Studies: Analysis of existing CMS-powered websites and their design features.
  • Group Discussions: Students will discuss real-world web development challenges and solutions.
  • Practical Projects: Converting static websites to dynamic CMS-powered sites and developing custom plugins.

Modes of Assessment:

  • Practical Assignments: 50% (Website development using CMS tools, plugin creation, converting static sites).
  • Mid-Semester Test: 20% (Theoretical understanding of CMS tools, web development techniques, and design principles).
  • Final Examination: 30% (Comprehensive test on CMS platforms, web design, and content management techniques).

Reading List/References:

Primary Texts:

  1. Joseph C. O'Connor, Joomla! 3 SEO and Performance: An In-Depth Guide to Boosting Your Website's SEO and Performance, Packt Publishing, 2015.
  2. Wally Wang, MS SharePoint 2013 For Dummies, Wiley, 2013.

Supplementary Texts:

  1. Jason L. Brooks, WordPress for Web Developers: An Introduction for Web Professionals, Wiley, 2015.
  2. Michael Peacock, Joomla! 3 Beginner's Guide, Packt Publishing, 2014.

Additional Resources:

  1. Online CMS tutorials on platforms like W3Schools, Joomla.org, and SharePoint Docs.
  2. Online forums and communities for CMS developers (e.g., Stack Overflow, Joomla forums).
  3. Industry blogs and case studies on CMS-powered website development and trends.