Prof. Jenna Spevack | Teaching Site

COURSE DOCUMENTS | SYLLABUS PG01 | Syllabus PG02

Web Page Design and Implementation: AD550
(3 credits, 2 class hours, 2 lab hours)

Professor: Jenna Spevack

• Email: jenna@profspevack.com
• Website: profspevack.com
• Office Hours: Mondays 6-8pm
• Office Location: N1111
• Office Phone: 718-260-5221

Course Description:

• In this class students will learn to design and construct effective web sites as both a graphic designer and technical builder.  They will learn how to analyze information and apply graphic design techniques to real-world scenarios: products, services, research, and the arts.  The goal is to develop effective and pleasing web sites that are web standards compliant, accessible to those with disabilities, and forward compatible. Students will gain a solid foundation in current markup languages and applications, modern layout and style, and industry trends.
• Course goals for each student include designing and building a portfolio site using standards-compliant XHTML and CSS, publishing on the department's FTP server, making class presentations and writing web content. 

Prerequisites:

• AD317.0
• Working knowledge of Photoshop and Illustrator

Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate a practical knowledge and understanding of the basic technical skills necessary to build effective, well-designed web sites, including lean, efficient, standards compliant XHTML, properly implemented CSS, site organization, and FTP.
• Continue to develop the research tools needed to continue to learn new skills in rapidly evolving web technologies.
• Demonstrate a unique visual aesthetic underlining the importance of visual hierarchy, user-friendly navigation, consistent color scheme, graphic style and layout, and typography and alignment to aid legibility and user confidence.

Course Materials

• A portable drive to transport your files AND a spindle of recordable/rewriteable CDs or a Firewire Drive to back up your work. Do not leave files on the lab computers, they will be deleted. Excuses for lost or corrupted disks or drives are not acceptable.
• This CLASS SITE will be utilized for the posting of class materials. Please check it every week for new announcements and updates. The syllabus, handouts, assignments and exams will be posted here for your reference. profspevack.com/web_design
• There is no required text, but I recommend this book:
  • HTML Dog: The Book
    by Patrick Griffiths
    New Riders Press (November 22, 2006)
    ISBN-10: 0321311396

Expectations:
Students are expected to

• spend at least 2 additional hours a week (outside of class) on homework, class projects and study.
• turn in the weekly homework at the start of the next class meeting, and midterm and final project work on the date due.
• arrive on time and attend all classes.
• present in-progress and final work to the class for discussion.
• participate in class discussions, critiques and exercises.
• be respectful of fellow students and offer help when needed.
• back up work on CD or an alternate device every week. Flash drives are not an acceptable form of backup.

Attendance Policy:
For more information about the attendance policy review Understanding Your Grade.

• Points are taken away from your final grade for each class you are absent from. Two lates equal one absence. If you miss more than two classes you could receive a failing grade for the semester. This policy is in accordance with the school attendance policy. Check your student handbook (page 14) for details

Labs:
You will be working on projects, tests and assignments for at least two hours outside of class. If you don't have a computer at home you will need to utilize the ADGA Labs during the week or on the weekends. Check the ADGA Department Posters to find out exact hours and days. You may also use the 4th Floor Student Lab, the Learning Center lab, the ePortfolio lab if you have an account, and the new 6th Floor Open Mac Lab when it opens.

Grading Policy:
Please thoroughly read Understanding Your Grade*. Attendance and participation greatly effect your final grade and your ability to keep up with the course content. If you want an A, begin by coming to class on time every week.

• 85% projects
• 15% class participation

*If you have questions please contact the professor.