In a series of exercises, students learn to use basic tags, attach images, design tables, and create links to other Web pages. They become able to prepare graphics of various kinds, and then, in the second half of the semester, they develop projects that will be placed on the Shorecrest Web server. Some projects will involve maintenance and updating of existing parts of the school's Web presence. Especially adept students will assist the instructor with such matters as forms design, CGI configuration, Java script, and updates and troubleshooting of the Web servers. A hands-on course, Computing Essentials involves practical work with Shorecrest's computers and network.
Instruction involves discussion, demonstration, and critiques of student performance.
The computer literacy sequence involves one or two tests. Thereafter, assessment is based on student participation in the work at hand. If class sizes increase, more structured procedures will be used. The instructor endeavors to bring Computing Essentials students together with such visitors as repair technicians and network installers. The instructor ensures that the students will encounter a variety of tasks so that the objectives listed above are covered, but in general each day's class time is spend assisting the computer staff with their work at hand.