Summary from Readings Chapters 1-3

Journal 1: Part 1    Getting Started

Robbins, J. (2012). Learning web design : a beginner's guide to HTML, CSS, Javascript, and web graphics. Sebastopol, CA: O'Reilly.

Summary Reflection:

An overview of the language used in current technology is presented in the first three chapters of the book. These chapters acquaint the reader with most of the basic terms that are going to be used throughout the book and in our class. You become knowledgeable of how the Web functions, key pieces you need to know and have to begin web design and complete a website. They gave examples and discussed the way in which "the web" works.  A non-experienced person such as me is introduced to the foundations of how to basically build and design a web site. 

How amazing it is to see how the web, as it exists, is progressing and evolving. Flash, HTML, Dreamweaver, etc. all of these tools and products are phenomenal. The format for our IP address IPv4 holding over 4 billion unique addresses, the move towards IPv6 that can take on trillions of numbers, and the device diversity from our desktop to our mobile device is unbelievable. Just wonder what the W3C (World Wide Web Consortium) will be doing next!

Every day something new pops up in the world of technology. When you purchase a computer it becomes outdated shortly after you purchase it. In web design the constant changes have to be taken into consideration.  Multiple factors such as browsers, devices, accessibility, the whole puzzle and picture have to be assessed. In this course I notice the topics we talk about as I casually overhear technology geeks conversing at coffee shops, at computers stores, work, and school. Obviously, following the standards and rules to design the best website is essential.  Web designing entails many different components to put the entire maze together. I, personally, am far below the learning curve for starts!

The reading sparked a few questions that need clarification:

Question #1: What are other options that web designers use for improved, easier accessibility?

A1. What ways can users with disabilities and the elderly benefit the web designer’s processes?

Involve users early in projects helping to understand real-world accessibility challenges. For example; how people with disabilities and the elderly use the web with adaptive strategies and assistive technologies.

Involving users early on helps in implementing effective accessibility solutions. It broadens the perspective in a way that can lead to discovering new ways of thinking about products that will make it work better for others in similar situations

Question #2: Do both progressive enhancement and graceful degradation operate in similar ways?

A2. According to the reading, progressive enhancement and graceful degradation attempt to accomplish the same thing: they keep products useful to users. Progressive enhancement being more sophisticated and assuring, plus it takes more time and effort. Graceful degradation is easier, and can act to mend an already existing product; it results in harder maintenance later on, but requires less work initially.