Web Application Development module (AC51046)

Being able to create modern web experiences is an important part of every Computer Scientist's toolbox.

In this module, you will explore how to create front-ends for web experiences. These are the parts of web applications that users interact with directly. They encompass the layout, design, and interactivity of a page.

Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) form the foundation of webpages and are used to create, structure, and style content. Additionally, JavaScript allows you to add interactivity and retrieve data from other services. Together with knowledge of design principles, they allow you to create rich user experiences on the web.

Learning about these core web technologies enables you to develop a better understanding of how websites work and how you can create your own.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• learn about core technologies used to create web experiences
• explore HTML and Semantic Web Elements to create and structure web content
• study Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) to format webpages
• work with CSS libraries, such as Bootstrap, to streamline the website design process
• learn how to program in JavaScript and retrieve data from Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)
• study important design principles such as contrast, repetition, alignment, and proximity
• explore the historical and social aspects of the web

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• understand and use web-based programming languages
• show your ability to use core web technologies
• reflect on historical, social, and potential future web developments
• consider legal, ethical, social, and accessibility issues in the design of webpages

Assignments / assessment

• website case study (30%)
• web application project (50%)
• class tests (20%)

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

You will learn by taking a hands-on approach.

This will involve taking part in workshops and seminar sessions, where you will be guided by module staff on different techniques that can be used within web development.

Learning material is provided through videos, review notes, and examples.