Course Catalog Description
An introduction to principles and practice of server-side scripting using PHP, including form processing, content customization, and MySQL database interaction. Assumes prior familiarity with HTML web development and some other form of scripting (such as Javascript) or general programming. Requires CSC 105 or by permission of instructor. commenting.
This is a half-semester course, starting October 25.
A calendar of topics to be covered appears on a separate page.
Texts
Recommended texts:
- Beginning PHP and MySQL: From Novice to Professional, by W.J. Gilmore, 4th edition (primary)
- PHP and MySQL Web Development (4th Edition) by Luke Welling and Laura Thomson (alternate)
Requirements
The course meets twice a week, with a mixed lecture and lab format. Students will complete two significant projects in the course, and will be expected to participate in group discussions on their own work and that of the other students in the class. There will be a final exam.
The two design projects will together make up 60% of the course grade. Lab assignments and participation will count for 10%, and an open-book self-scheduled final exam will make up the remaining 30%. Meaningful participation in class discussions (particularly when others are presenting their work) is expected of all students. An exceptionally high or low degree of participation may result in a corresponding adjustment to the final grade. Students are encouraged to review the instructor's grading policies.
Collaboration policy: Because the details of each student's project will differ, consultation on technical aspects of web site creation is permitted and encouraged. Similarly, consultation with fellow students during lab exercises is allowed. However, one student may not create content for submission under another student's name, and any work submitted must accurately reflect the understanding of the student(s) who submitted it. Abuses of this policy will result in a referral to the Honor Board.
Schedule
Monday & Wednesday, 9:00-10:20 AM, Ford Hall 241.
Look here for a list of topics by week. (Note that this is merely a projection and subject to change as the class progresses.)
Consulting Hours
TA hours (in Ford Hall 241):
Mondays 8-9 PM: Ashley Smith asmith@smith.edu
Office hours for Professor Howe are available here.
Additional Considerations
We want everyone to succeed in this course. Students requiring special accommodations due to disability or other factors are encouraged to contact the professor at their earliest convenience so that any necessary arrangements may be made.