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Introduction to Web Development

William Mead

This course is designed to build your skills in web development and design, no matter how little experience or technical knowledge you currently have. You probably visit several websites every day, whether for business, entertainment or education. But have you ever wondered how these websites actually work? How are they built? How do browsers, computers, and mobile devices interact with the web? What skills are necessary to build a website? With a billion websites now on the internet, the answers to these questions could be your first step toward a better understanding of the internet and developing a new set of internet skills.

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This course is designed to build your skills in web development and design, no matter how little experience or technical knowledge you currently have. You probably visit several websites every day, whether for business, entertainment or education. But have you ever wondered how these websites actually work? How are they built? How do browsers, computers, and mobile devices interact with the web? What skills are necessary to build a website? With a billion websites now on the internet, the answers to these questions could be your first step toward a better understanding of the internet and developing a new set of internet skills.

By the end of this course you’ll be able to describe the structure and functionality of the world wide web, create static web pages using HTML and CSS, select an appropriate web hosting service, and publish your webpages for the world to see. Finally, you’ll be able to develop a working model for creating your own personal or business websites in the future and launch yourself on a learning journey in web development.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to HTML
Welcome to the course! In this module, we will begin with downloading and installing the code editor Visual Studio Code. You will then be able to identify different parts of the HTML language, manually add basic tags for web pages, and properly use basic opening and closing tags with content on a HTML file to markup content. You will also test files for errors using a HTML validator. Let’s get started!
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops foundational skills in web development, desirable for students in computer science and software engineering
Designed for learners with no prior knowledge in web development, making it suitable for beginners in the field
Taught by instructors with experience in the field, providing practical knowledge and insights
Covers essential elements of web design and development, providing a comprehensive foundation for further learning
Utilizes industry-standard tools and technologies, ensuring relevance and applicability in the workplace
Practical in nature, with hands-on exercises and projects to reinforce concepts and build skills

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Reviews summary

Solid beginner's guide to web development

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in the fundamental concepts of web development, specifically HTML and CSS. Many found the content to be clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for absolute beginners with no prior coding experience. Students particularly appreciated the practical exercises and assignments which helped reinforce the learned material. While largely positive, some reviewers noted that the course covers only the basics and might require additional resources for deeper understanding or more modern practices. Overall, it's seen as a great starting point for anyone looking to understand how websites are built.
Primarily covers fundamental HTML/CSS.
"This course focuses heavily on foundational HTML and CSS, which is good for beginners but doesn't go much beyond that."
"It provides a necessary base but don't expect to learn advanced topics or modern frameworks here."
"The syllabus accurately reflects that it's an introduction; it sticks to the very core elements of web page structure and styling."
"While it covers HTML/CSS well, it only scratches the surface of what modern web development entails."
Exercises help reinforce learning effectively.
"The assignments were incredibly helpful in applying what I learned in the lectures, making the concepts stick."
"I really enjoyed the practical coding exercises; they were essential for practicing HTML and CSS."
"Building small projects as part of the course made the learning experience much more engaging and practical."
"The hands-on parts are definitely the strength here, allowing you to immediately use the new skills."
Lectures and material are easy to grasp.
"The explanations were very clear and broken down into manageable parts, which made learning much easier."
"I found the way the instructor presented the material very logical and easy to understand, even complex ideas."
"Content is delivered concisely and the pace feels just right for absorbing the new information effectively."
"The course material is well-structured and easy to follow step-by-step."
Ideal starting point for newcomers to web dev.
"This course is absolutely perfect if you are starting from scratch with web development, no prior knowledge needed."
"It's a great introduction for absolute beginners, explaining concepts clearly without assuming any background."
"I had zero experience before this course, and I feel like I have a solid basic understanding of HTML and CSS now."
"Definitely recommend for anyone looking to get their feet wet in web development for the very first time."
May need external resources for depth.
"To truly build anything complex or stay current, I feel I'll need to find other resources to supplement what I learned here."
"While a great start, the course is not sufficient on its own for building a career; it's just the first step."
"I had to look up some information online to get a fuller picture on certain topics mentioned briefly."
"Consider this a jumping-off point; you will need to continue learning after finishing."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Web Development with these activities:
Test your HTML knowledge
Take a practice HTML quiz to assess your current level of knowledge and identify any areas where you may need to refresh your skills.
Show steps
  • Take an online HTML quiz
  • Review your results and identify any areas where you need to brush up on your knowledge
Review Course Materials
Regular review of course materials helps strengthen your understanding and retention.
Show steps
  • Review lecture notes after each class
  • Complete practice exercises and assignments
  • Summarize key concepts in your own words
Watch tutorials on web development
These tutorials will provide you with additional instruction and support.
Browse courses on HTML
Show steps
  • Find tutorials on web development.
  • Watch the tutorials.
  • Take notes on the tutorials.
15 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 18 activities
Practice HTML and CSS coding exercises
These exercises will help you reinforce the concepts you learn in this course.
Browse courses on HTML
Show steps
  • Find online coding exercises.
  • Solve the exercises.
  • Check your answers.
Follow Online HTML and CSS Tutorials
Online tutorials provide a structured and step-by-step approach to learning HTML and CSS.
Browse courses on HTML
Show steps
  • Find reputable HTML and CSS tutorials online
  • Follow the tutorials step-by-step
  • Complete the exercises and quizzes
Build a personal website or blog
This project will help you apply the skills you learn in this course to a real-world project.
Browse courses on HTML
Show steps
  • Plan your website or blog.
  • Choose a domain name and web hosting provider.
  • Set up your website or blog using HTML and CSS.
  • Add content to your website or blog.
  • Publish your website or blog.
Practice HTML and CSS Coding
Writing out HTML and CSS code is the best way to solidify your understanding of these two markup and style languages.
Browse courses on HTML
Show steps
  • Write basic HTML code for a static website
  • Add CSS code to style the HTML elements
  • Test your code in a web browser
Join a study group or online forum for web developers
This will allow you to connect with other web developers and learn from each other.
Browse courses on Web Development
Show steps
  • Find a study group or online forum for web developers.
  • Join the group or forum.
  • Participate in discussions.
Join a Study Group
Collaborating with peers can provide valuable insights and perspectives.
Browse courses on Collaboration
Show steps
  • Find a group of classmates to form a study group
  • Meet regularly to discuss course content
  • Work together on assignments and projects
Attend HTML and CSS Workshops
Workshops provide an opportunity to learn from experts and ask questions.
Browse courses on HTML
Show steps
  • Find reputable HTML and CSS workshops in your area
  • Register for the workshops and attend in person
  • Take notes and actively participate in the activities
Attend meetups and conferences on web development
These events will allow you to connect with other web developers and learn about the latest trends.
Browse courses on Web Development
Show steps
  • Find meetups and conferences on web development.
  • Attend the meetups and conferences.
  • Network with other web developers.
Build a Simple Website
Create a basic website using HTML and CSS to apply your knowledge and demonstrate your skills in web development.
Browse courses on Website Development
Show steps
  • Plan the structure and layout of your website
  • Write the HTML code for the website
  • Style the website with CSS
  • Publish your website online
Contribute to open source web development projects
This will allow you to gain experience working on real-world web development projects.
Browse courses on Open Source
Show steps
  • Get feedback from other developers.
  • Find open source web development projects.
  • Contribute to the projects.
Build a Personal Website
Building your own website is a great way to apply your HTML and CSS skills in a practical setting.
Show steps
  • Plan the structure and content of your website
  • Create HTML files for each page
  • Add CSS code to style the website
  • Publish your website online
Create a portfolio of your web development work
This will help you showcase your skills to potential employers.
Browse courses on Web Development
Show steps
  • Choose the best examples of your web development work.
  • Create a portfolio website or online gallery.
  • Add your work to your portfolio.
  • Share your portfolio with potential employers.
Develop a Webpage for a Client
Working on a real-world project helps you apply your skills in a practical setting.
Browse courses on Web Development
Show steps
  • Find a client who needs a webpage designed
  • Gather requirements and create a design plan
  • Create HTML and CSS code for the webpage
  • Test and deploy the webpage on a server
Develop a Portfolio Website
Create a portfolio website to showcase your web development skills and demonstrate your ability to build a complete website from scratch.
Browse courses on Portfolio Website
Show steps
  • Plan and design your portfolio website
  • Develop the website using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
  • Test and debug your website
  • Deploy your website to a web hosting platform
Mentor Junior Web Developers
Share your knowledge and experience by mentoring junior web developers to help them improve their skills and advance their careers.
Show steps
  • Identify opportunities to mentor junior web developers
  • Provide guidance and support to mentees
  • Share resources and industry knowledge with mentees

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Web Development will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Front-End Developer
Front-End Developers are responsible for the design and implementation of the user interface of websites and web applications. This course provides an excellent introduction to the essential skills and technologies used in front-end development, including HTML, CSS, and web hosting. Through hands-on exercises and projects, individuals can develop a solid foundation in the principles of web design, layout, and interactivity, preparing them for a successful career as a Front-End Developer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Front-End Developer
Web Developer
Web Developers are responsible for the entire process of web development, from planning and design to coding and maintenance. This course offers a comprehensive introduction to the foundational principles and technologies used in web development. By gaining a solid understanding of HTML, CSS, web hosting, and the structure of the web, individuals can build a strong foundation for a successful career as a Web Developer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer
Web Designer
Web Designers are responsible for the visual and aesthetic design of websites and web applications. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and tools used in web design, including HTML, CSS, and web hosting. Through hands-on exercises and projects, individuals can develop a strong foundation in web design principles, layout, and user experience, preparing them for a successful career as a Web Designer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Designer
Webmaster
Webmasters are responsible for the technical maintenance and administration of websites and web servers. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles and technologies used in web development and maintenance, including HTML, CSS, web hosting, and server administration. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of these topics, individuals can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage and maintain websites and web servers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Webmaster
User Experience Designer
User Experience (UX) Designers play a vital role in the web development process by ensuring that websites and applications are easy to use, visually appealing, and engaging. This course, with its focus on web design principles and development techniques, can provide a strong foundation in the key concepts of UX design. By learning about HTML, CSS, and the structure of the web, individuals can gain a comprehensive understanding of how to create user-friendly and effective digital experiences.
See salaries and explore the career path for User Experience Designer
Information Architect
Information Architects are responsible for designing and organizing the structure and content of websites and other digital platforms. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles and technologies used in web development, which are essential for Information Architects to understand in order to effectively design and organize online content. By learning about HTML, CSS, and the structure of the web, individuals can gain a better understanding of how content is presented and consumed online, enabling them to create more effective and user-friendly information architectures.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Architect
Content Manager
Content Managers are responsible for planning, creating, and managing the content on websites and other digital platforms. This course provides a valuable introduction to the principles of web design and development, which are essential for Content Managers to understand in order to effectively create and manage online content. By learning about HTML, CSS, and the structure of the web, individuals can gain a better understanding of how content is presented and consumed online, enabling them to make informed decisions about content strategy and presentation.
See salaries and explore the career path for Content Manager
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the planning, development, and launch of new products and services. This course provides a valuable introduction to the principles and technologies used in web development, which are essential for Product Managers to understand in order to effectively develop and manage digital products. By learning about HTML, CSS, and the structure of the web, individuals can gain a better understanding of the technical aspects of web-based products and services, enabling them to make informed decisions about product features and functionality.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create instruction manuals, user guides, and other documentation to help users understand and use technical products and systems. This course can be beneficial for aspiring Technical Writers who want to develop a strong foundation in web development concepts and technologies. By learning about HTML, CSS, and the structure of the web, individuals can gain a better understanding of the technical aspects of web-based products and services, enabling them to create more effective and user-friendly documentation.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers are responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns to promote products and services. This course provides a foundational understanding of the principles and technologies used in web development, which are becoming increasingly important in digital marketing. By learning about HTML, CSS, and the structure of the web, individuals can gain a better understanding of how websites and online content are created and consumed, enabling them to develop more effective and targeted marketing campaigns.
See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager
Project Manager
Project Managers are responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. This course provides a valuable introduction to the principles and technologies used in web development, which are becoming increasingly important in project management. By learning about HTML, CSS, and the structure of the web, individuals can gain a better understanding of how websites and online systems are developed and managed, enabling them to effectively plan and execute web development projects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to provide insights for businesses. This course provides a foundational understanding of the principles and technologies used in web development, which are becoming increasingly important in data analysis. By learning about HTML, CSS, and the structure of the web, individuals can gain a better understanding of how data is collected and presented online, enabling them to analyze data more effectively and draw more accurate conclusions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts are responsible for analyzing business needs and developing solutions to improve efficiency and productivity. This course provides a foundational understanding of the principles and technologies used in web development, which are becoming increasingly important in business analysis. By learning about HTML, CSS, and the structure of the web, individuals can gain a better understanding of how websites and online systems are used in businesses, enabling them to identify and analyze business needs more effectively.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmers write and maintain code for software systems. This course provides a valuable introduction to the principles and technologies used in web development, which are becoming increasingly important in computer programming. By learning about HTML, CSS, and the structure of the web, individuals can gain a better understanding of how websites and online systems are built, enabling them to write more effective and efficient code.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. This course provides a foundational understanding of the principles and technologies used in web development, which are becoming increasingly important in software engineering. By learning about HTML, CSS, and the structure of the web, individuals can gain a better understanding of how websites and online systems are built, enabling them to develop more effective and robust software solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Featured in The Course Notes

This course is mentioned in our blog, The Course Notes. Read one article that features Introduction to Web Development:
25 Free Online Programming Courses for Beginners - 2017
4 minute read

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Web Development.
JavaScript and JQuery
Save
Comprehensive guide to web design, covering all aspects of the process from planning and design to coding and testing. It includes detailed coverage of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and jQuery, and provides numerous examples and exercises to help readers learn these technologies.
JavaScript and jQuery: Interactive Front-End Web...
Paperback
$$
Web Design with HTML, CSS, JavaScript and jQuery Set
Paperback
$$
Front-End Back-End Development with HTML, CSS,...
Paperback
$$$
(Deutsch) JavaScript & jQuery (German Edition)
Paperback
$$$
JavaScript & jQuery interactive Web front-end...
Paperback
$$
[JavaScript and jQuery: Interactive Front-End Web...
Unknown Binding
$$$
Cover image
Verses, Voices, & Visions of Vallejo
Save
Fascinating history of the World Wide Web. It covers the origins of the web, the development of key technologies such as HTML and CSS, and the impact of the web on society and culture. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the origins and evolution of the web.
Verses, Voices, & Visions of Vallejo: A Poetry...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Accessibility for Everyone
Save
Practical guide to designing and developing accessible websites. It covers all aspects of accessibility, from understanding the needs of users with disabilities to implementing accessible features, and includes numerous examples and exercises to help readers learn how to create accessible websites.
Accessibility for Everyone
Paperback
$$
Accessibility for Everyone
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Web Design with HTML, CSS, JavaScript and jQuery Set
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of HTML and CSS, making it a valuable resource for beginners who want to learn the fundamentals of web development. It covers essential concepts such as HTML structure, CSS selectors, and CSS properties, and includes numerous examples and exercises to help readers practice their skills.
Web Design with HTML, CSS, JavaScript and jQuery Set
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Responsive Web Design with HTML5 and CSS
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Provides a comprehensive overview of responsive web design, covering topics such as media queries, flexible layouts, and adaptive images. It includes numerous examples and case studies to help readers understand how to design and develop websites that work well on all devices.
Responsive Web Design with HTML5 and CSS - Fourth...
Paperback
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Responsive Web Design with HTML5 and CSS: Develop...
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Responsive Web Design with HTML5 and CSS: Build...
Kindle Edition
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Responsive Web Design with HTML5 and CSS: Develop...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Pragmatic Programmer
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Classic guide to software development. It covers a wide range of topics, from software design to project management, and is an excellent resource for web developers of all levels who want to improve their skills.
The Pragmatic Programmer: Your Journey To Mastery,...
Hardcover
$$
Pragmatic Programmer, The: From Journeyman to Master
Kindle Edition
$$
(Italiano) Pragmatic Programmer - Edizione del 20°...
Kindle Edition
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(Italiano) Il Pragmatic Programmer: Guida per manovali del...
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(中文) The Pragmatic Programmer: access to the highest...
Paperback
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Pragmatic programmer (Korean Edition)
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$$$
Cover image
JavaScript: The Definitive Guide
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Comprehensive reference guide to JavaScript, covering everything from basic syntax to advanced topics such as object-oriented programming and asynchronous programming. It is an excellent resource for web developers of all levels who want to improve their understanding of JavaScript and its capabilities.
JavaScript: The Definitive Guide
Paperback
Check
JavaScript: The Definitive Guide
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
On Web Typography
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Practical guide to using typography on the web. It covers all aspects of web typography, from choosing the right fonts to setting type for different devices, and includes numerous examples and exercises to help readers learn how to use typography effectively.
On Web Typography
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Jquery in Action
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Practical guide to using jQuery, a popular JavaScript library that simplifies web development. It covers essential topics such as DOM manipulation, event handling, and Ajax, and includes numerous examples and exercises to help readers learn how to use jQuery effectively.
jQuery in Action
Kindle Edition
$$
jQuery in Action, Second Edition
Paperback
$$
(中文) jQuery实战（第2版） (图灵程序设计丛书 90) (Chinese Edition)
Kindle Edition
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Jquery in Action [Paperback] [Jul 22, 2010] Bear...
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Cover image
HTML Utopia
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Comprehensive reference guide to CSS, covering everything from basic syntax to advanced techniques such as CSS grids and animations. It is an excellent resource for web developers of all levels who want to improve their understanding of CSS and its capabilities.
HTML Utopia: Designing Without Tables Using CSS...
Paperback
$$

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Course image
Effort
Approx. 10 hours
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of California, Davis
Instructor
William Mead
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops foundational skills in web development, desirable for students in computer science and software engineering
Designed for learners with no prior knowledge in web development, making it suitable for beginners in the field
Taught by instructors with experience in the field, providing practical knowledge and insights
Covers essential elements of web design and development, providing a comprehensive foundation for further learning
Utilizes industry-standard tools and technologies, ensuring relevance and applicability in the workplace
Practical in nature, with hands-on exercises and projects to reinforce concepts and build skills
Featured in The Course Notes
Read one article that features this course, Introduction to Web Development from our blog, The Course Notes:
25 Free Online Programming Courses for Beginners - 2017
4 minute read
Share this
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