Innovative teachers from across the US are using the new Introduction to Web Design Using Microsoft Expression curriculum in a unique pilot program. To date over 90 teachers have participated in a professional community of peers to teach modern Web design concepts and skills with Expression Web and Expression Desgin professional software tools. They share ideas for delivering the content and provide feedback for future curriculum versions. The software is provided free of charge.
The semester-long course was written by a team of 8 leading computer science, Web design, technology, math, art and science teachers. It includes detailed lesson plans, tutorials, student projects & activities, presentations and assessment tools. The curriculum is based upon the ISTE's National Educational Technology Standards (NETS-S) and 21st Century Skills.
Students will develop real-world collaboration, team-work, and technical skills through the 8 learning modules.
Module 1: The History and the Future of the Web - 1 week
Explores the past and future of Web technologies and the structure of the Web. The rights and responsibilities surrounding intellectual property rights in an electronic world are emphasized.
Module 2: HTML Basics - 2 weeks
Introduces basic HTML tags and cascading style sheets (CSS) through projects designed to experiment with page design and introduces the concepts of Web standards and accessibility.
Module 3: Designing for Communication - 2 weeks
Explores human communication and the unique challenges that electronic modes of communication present for effective transmission of ideas. Projects focus on the use of design principles to communication successfully to a Web audience.
Module 4: Working with Images - 3 weeks
Uses Microsoft Expression Design to create images (that are used in Web projects in Module 7). Image concepts related to scanning, digital photography, and image manipulation techniques are included.
Module 5: Beyond the Basics with Expression Web - 2 weeks
Introduces students to the Expression Web environment and provides tutorials to guide them in creating a Web site. Advanced concepts are introduced.
Module 6: The Design Process - 3 weeks
Explores Web technology careers and simulates the design planning process of Web design professionals. Team collaboration and customer interactions are emphasized as students plan a Web site project for an organization. (The project planned in this module is created in Module 7.)
Module 7 The Production Process - 3 weeks
Guides students in the production of the Web site that was planned and designed in Module 6. This module is lab intensive, with the educator serving primarily as a guide and supervisor. (The planning for this module occurs in Module 6.)
Module 8 Web Publishing and Maintenance - 2 weeks
Establishes processes and techniques for selecting hosting services, evaluating the effectiveness and usability of Web sites, and providing maintenance over time. Personal reflection on the complete Web design process, and the skills and characteristics valuable for Web technology careers is encouraged. (The project produced in Module 7 is referenced within this module.)
Contact us today to learn how to participate in this exciting project!