In this module, I first learnt some concepts related to computers and internet. Subsequently, I learnt about the importance of algorithms, programming in computational thinking. Obviously, learning only theoretical concepts is not enough. I also learnt how to build a simple web page using HTML and CSS. For example, I can use HTML tags to partition a web page and put different content in clear areas for reading. CSS can also be used to change colours, fonts and many other elements of a web page to make it more aesthetically pleasing and easy to read. As well as JavaScript to design some simple algorithms to output results.
Of these, HTML and CSS are relatively easy to get started and master, and these two technologies play an important role in designing the interaction of an interface (Moffett, 2014). For me, who lacked a computer background, this knowledge effectively increased my understanding of computer technology. It also made me realise the importance of computational thinking in this day and age, so I can analyse problems and solve them with a more diverse perspective. The HTML, CSS and JavaScript technologies learnt are representative of front-end web development, which has enabled me to gain a deeper understanding of the process of creating a website.
This allows me to produce some of my creativity and ideas into web pages. Though, I can only create simple web pages with less amount of content now. However, as I continue to learn more about tags and various codes, I believe that I will become more proficient in creating web pages and produce excellent designs.
This is a good start for the remainder of the course.HTML, CSS and JavaScript are very popular development technologies that cover many computer related concepts. The module gave me some basic concepts of the computer industry, which facilitated a quicker understanding of other computer knowledge and skills. Other modules such as Fundamentals of Programming and Data Visualisation, which covers some knowledge related to JavaScript and Python. These different computer languages are similar to each other, so the knowledge of web design that I have learnt in this module will help me to understand and get started with the new computer related course more quickly.
Overall, this is a very basic but important course. Even though the content is not very in-depth, I was able to learn a lot for a novice like me. I'm glad I was able to participate in this course.
Moffett, J. (2014). Why HTML and CSS? Bridging UX and Web Development, pp.55–61. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-420245-0.00004-3.