An introduction to HTML5, focusing on how web pages are created and viewed across different devices.
Course Overview
HTML Basics: Learn what HTML (HyperText Markup Language) is and its evolution to HTML5. Web Page Structure: Understand the Response/Request Cycle and how web pages consist of multiple files.
Key Concepts
Syntax and Semantics: Explore the correct syntax for HTML tags and the importance of semantic tags for accessibility. Publishing: Gain knowledge on how to publish your web pages, even though posting online is not required for the course. Engagement and Assessment
Participation: Engage with course materials and discussions while respecting community guidelines. Quizzes and Projects: Complete weekly quizzes and a final peer-reviewed project to demonstrate your understanding of HTML5.
This course, "Introduction to HTML5," aims to provide beginners with a foundational understanding of web design and development.
Course Overview
The course starts with the basics of HTML5, focusing on syntax and semantics, which are essential for creating web pages. It emphasizes accessibility, ensuring that web content is usable for everyone, including those with disabilities. Course Structure
Week One: Focuses on understanding how the web works, including URL functionality and necessary tools for coding. Week Two: Introduces the Document Object Model (DOM) and covers HTML5 elements like tags, headings, links, images, and multimedia. Week Three: Integrates learned concepts, focusing on code validation, accessibility, domain registration, and web hosting. Learning Objectives
Students will learn to recognize and use common HTML5 tags, understand how to use an editor, and compose HTML5 code for images and links. The course culminates in a final project where students create a simple multipage website, emphasizing content over design.
Syntax in HTML5 is crucial for several reasons:
Structure and Clarity: Syntax defines the structure of HTML documents, ensuring that the code is organized and easy to read. Proper syntax helps both developers and browsers understand the intended layout and functionality of a webpage.
Browser Interpretation: Browsers rely on correct syntax to render web pages accurately. If the syntax is incorrect, the browser may misinterpret the code, leading to display issues or broken functionality.
Validation: Adhering to proper syntax allows for code validation, which checks for errors and ensures that the code meets web standards. Valid code is more likely to work across different browsers and devices.
Accessibility: Correct syntax can enhance accessibility for users with disabilities. Semantic HTML elements convey meaning, making it easier for assistive technologies to interpret the content.
The main purpose of HTML5 is to provide a standardized way to structure and present content on the web. Key objectives include:
Improved Semantics: HTML5 introduces new tags that better describe the content, making it easier for browsers and assistive technologies to understand the structure and meaning of web pages.
Multimedia Support: It natively supports audio and video elements, allowing for richer media experiences without the need for external plugins.
Device Independence: HTML5 is designed to work across various devices, ensuring consistent access to content whether on desktops, tablets, or smartphones.
Enhanced Accessibility: It aims to make web content more accessible to users with disabilities by providing better support for assistive technologies. Overall, HTML5 enhances the way web content is created, shared, and experienced, promoting a more interactive and user-friendly web.
This course content provides an overview of HTML5, its purpose, and its evolution from earlier versions of HTML.
Understanding HTML
HTML stands for Hypertext Markup Language, which uses tags to annotate documents for web browsers. A .html file is recognized by browsers like Chrome and Firefox, allowing them to display content correctly. Evolution of HTML
HTML was created in 1990 to connect documents via hyperlinks, primarily for scientific use. The introduction of graphical browsers like Mosaic in 1993 led to debates about content versus design, resulting in the "browser wars." HTML5 and Its Guidelines
HTML5 emerged as a collaboration between W3C and other groups, focusing on standardizing features and improving accessibility. Key guidelines include reducing reliance on external plugins, ensuring device independence, and simplifying markup to enhance usability.
The request-response cycle, explaining what occurs when a user types a URL into a browser.
Client-Server Relationship
Clients are personal devices (like laptops and phones) that request resources from servers, which store these resources. Local Area Networks (LAN) and Wide Area Networks (WAN) facilitate resource sharing among multiple clients. Understanding URLs
A URL consists of three parts: the protocol (e.g., HTTP, HTTPS), the domain (e.g., google.com), and optionally, the document. The protocol indicates how to connect, with HTTPS being secure for sensitive transactions. Request-Response Process
When a URL is entered, the client requests a web page, and the server responds with multiple files, not just a single web page. If the server cannot fulfill the request, it returns an error code (e.g., 404 for "File not found"). This overview helps learners grasp the technical aspects of web interactions as they progress in HTML5.
The evolving nature of web browsers and their impact on web page appearance and functionality.
Understanding Browser Differences
Browsers can display the same web page differently, which can lead to confusion when troubleshooting issues. It is advisable to check a web page on multiple browsers if you encounter problems. Browser Preferences and Recommendations
The instructor shares personal experiences with different browsers, highlighting the importance of flexibility in browser choice. An optional reading is provided for those interested in learning about the "best" browsers, though the instructor expresses a dislike for accompanying popups. Overall, the content aims to demystify how browsers work and why there are various options available.
The various web browsers available and their significance for web development.
Browser Overview
Different browsers have unique features, advantages, and disadvantages, which are important for web developers to understand. Popular browsers include Internet Explorer, Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, and Firefox, each with varying levels of market share and user preference. Browser Compatibility and Accessibility
Testing websites on multiple browsers is essential to ensure compatibility and functionality. Accessibility is a key consideration, with newer browsers like Edge showing better compliance with HTML5 standards compared to older ones like Internet Explorer. Market Trends and User Behavior
Browser usage trends change over time, with Google Chrome gaining significant market share since 2017. Users often stick with familiar browsers, which can lead to the continued use of outdated versions.
The essential steps for creating a webpage using HTML.
Organizing Your Files
Create a dedicated folder on your computer for HTML files to keep your work organized. Use a consistent naming convention for your files, avoiding spaces and ensuring clarity. Choosing an Editor
Select a suitable text editor for coding, such as Notepad++, Sublime, or Visual Studio Code for Windows, and TextWrangler or VS Code for Mac. Save your file immediately after creating it to avoid losing your work. Creating Your First HTML Page
Start your HTML file with the document type declaration and include the head and body sections. Regularly save your work and refresh your browser to view changes made in the code. Common Issues and Solutions
If your HTML file opens in the editor instead of a browser, use "Open With" to select a browser. Ensure your file is saved with the .html extension and refresh the browser to see updates after making changes.
using Visual Studio Code for web development, particularly for creating HTML pages.
Getting Started with Visual Studio Code
Open Visual Studio Code and navigate to your project folder using "File" > "Open Folder." The Explorer feature on the left will display all your project files, making it easier to manage them. Creating Your First HTML File
Create a new text file named "firstPage.html" and start coding with the DOCTYPE declaration. Visual Studio Code assists with code completion, such as automatically adding closing tags. Saving and Viewing Changes
Save your work frequently and check how it looks in a web browser like Google Chrome. Remember to reload the browser to see updates made in the code editor. Using Live Server Extension
Install the "Live Server" extension to view changes in real-time as you code. This feature allows for a more efficient workflow by automatically refreshing the browser when changes are saved. Best Practices
Use proper naming conventions for files and folders. Familiarize yourself with Visual Studio Code's features to enhance your coding experience.
The importance of using code editors for HTML development, particularly recommending Replit and Visual Studio Code (VSCode).
Using Code Editors
Replit is recommended for its ease of use, but VSCode is also popular for offline coding. VSCode is free, compatible with major operating systems, and offers features like color-coding, hover definitions, and real-time HTML changes. Features of Visual Studio Code
IntelliSense helps with code completion, but beginners should validate their code using the W3C Markup Validation Service. A trusted link is provided for downloading VSCode, and a video tutorial is suggested for getting started, including HTML examples. Validation and Best Practices
Emphasis on validating code to ensure syntactic correctness. Encouragement to focus on learning the editor's functionalities, especially Live Preview for real-time feedback.
Using Replit as an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for beginners to create and share web pages.
Replit Overview
Replit allows users to write, run, test, and share code easily. It is designed for novice programmers, making it accessible for those learning to create simple web pages. Creating a Replit Account
Users need to create an account with a username, email, and password. The chosen username will be part of the URL for the web page, so it should be representative and memorable. Starting a New Project
After logging in, users can create a new Repl using templates, specifically for HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. The initial setup provides scaffolding code, which can be modified to personalize the web page. Editing and Saving Code
Users can edit the provided code, such as changing text and saving their work. Replit offers a live preview of the web page, allowing users to see changes in real-time.
The importance of readings in understanding HTML and CSS concepts.
Readings and Their Importance
The readings are sourced from "Learn to Code HTML & CSS: Develop & Style Websites" and W3Schools tutorials. It is recommended to do the readings both before and after the lectures to enhance comprehension and prepare for quizzes. Lecture Support Materials
Accessible lecture slides are provided as downloadable PDFs, which may differ slightly from the video content. Code examples are available through platforms like CodePen and Replit, organized by week for easy access. Focus on HTML
The course primarily covers HTML, with a note that CSS will be addressed in the next course. Students are advised not to read the entire lessons for CSS, as it is outside the scope of this course.
Writing clean code and understanding the Document Object Model (DOM) in HTML5.
Understanding the DOM
The DOM is a tree-like structure representing HTML documents, with the HTML tag as the root. A well-formed HTML document consists of three parts: Doctype, head, and body. Components of a Well-Formed Document
The Doctype specifies the HTML version; in HTML5, it is simply "DOCTYPE HTML." The head contains metadata, such as the language and title, while the body holds the displayable content. Validating HTML Code
It's essential to validate your code to ensure it is well-formed and adheres to standards. Validators can identify errors, and fixing one error may resolve multiple issues in the code.
Understanding and using common HTML5 tags, which are essential for creating web pages.
HTML Tags Overview
The most common HTML tags include head, body, headings (h1 through h6), paragraphs, links, and images. Familiarizing yourself with these tags is crucial for effective web design. HTML Basic Examples
The course encourages learners to recognize and utilize these tags in practical scenarios. It also introduces the option to view HTML code when visiting web pages, enhancing understanding. HTML Headings
Understanding the structure of headings is optional but recommended for better organization of content. Proper use of headings improves accessibility and readability of web pages.
The basics of HTML, focusing on essential tags and their usage.
HTML Tags Overview
HTML consists of tags that define the structure of a webpage, including start and closing tags. Common tags include heading tags (h1 to h6), paragraph tags, and self-closing tags like the image tag. Block vs. Inline Elements
Block tags take up full width and height, creating a new line (e.g., headings and paragraphs). Inline tags only occupy the space needed (e.g., images), allowing them to sit next to each other. Attributes and Their Importance
Tags can have attributes that provide additional information, specified in name-value pairs. Important attributes include source (for images), alt (for accessibility), class (for styling), and id (for unique identification).
Provides valuable resources for learning HTML5 through various cheat sheets.
Cheat Sheets Overview
Numerous online cheat sheets exist for HTML5, listing all tags and information about deprecated tags. Recommended cheat sheets include WPKube's Ultimate HTML5 Cheat Sheet, which organizes tags alphabetically and compares them with HTML 4. Specific Cheat Sheets
HTML Cheat Sheet features a built-in editor for practical experimentation and includes emoji integration. WebAIM's HTML Semantics and Accessibility Cheat Sheet explains tag semantics, functions, and accessibility considerations. These resources are designed to enhance understanding and practical application of HTML5 tags.
The importance of using semantic tags in HTML to enhance accessibility and maintain clean code.
Understanding Semantic Tags
Semantic tags help improve the readability and maintainability of HTML code. Using HTML5 structural elements instead of excessive
Clean code is easier to read and modify, which is essential for web development. Adhering to semantic standards promotes accessibility for users with disabilities. Resources for Further Learning
A quick refresher on semantic tags can be found on the W3Schools site, specifically in the HTML Semantic Elements section.
The introduction of newer HTML5 semantic tags and their importance in web design.
Web Design Fundamentals
Emphasizes the significance of having a clear design plan before coding. Introduces a sample layout with header, footer, and other sections. Key HTML5 Semantic Tags
Header Tag: Used for grouping introductory content and navigation aids; it is a block tag that enhances accessibility for users with assistive devices. Nav Tag: Contains links to other parts of the same site, typically embedded within the header for easier navigation. Additional Semantic Tags
Footer Tag: Contains typical bottom-of-page information like copyright and social media links; its position is flexible. Figure Tag: Offers more semantic meaning than the image tag, allowing for captions and additional context for images, enhancing accessibility. The content encourages using appropriate semantic tags to improve webpage accessibility and user experience.
The importance of organizing code effectively when writing HTML.
Folder Structure
It is recommended to have a main folder for HTML files, with subfolders for images. An example structure includes a main folder named "WD4E" containing an HTML file (index.html) and an "images" folder. Code Case Sensitivity
Proper case usage in file paths is crucial, as some systems are case-sensitive. An example of incorrect usage is shown with "Images" instead of "images," which would lead to errors. Understanding Folder Structures
Mastering folder structures can be challenging initially but is essential for coding. A clear understanding of folder organization will benefit learners, even if they do not continue coding in the future.
Creating a basic HTML page using Visual Studio Code, emphasizing the importance of structure and validation.
Creating the HTML Page
Start by creating a file named "index.html," which is the default for web browsers. Utilize essential HTML elements: header, main, and footer, ensuring they contain meaningful content. Using Visual Studio Code
The editor provides a built-in shell for HTML5, including metadata and displayable content. Use tags like
for titles and
for paragraphs to enhance content visibility. Validation and Accessibility
Validate your HTML code using tools like W3 validator and WAVE accessibility checker. Regularly save your work and check for errors to ensure your code is accessible and error-free.
Creating a more complex web page using HTML5, specifically through the use of various tags and elements.
Creating the Web Page
Start by creating a file named "index.html" that includes header, main, and footer elements. Ensure that these elements are not empty and validate the page as you develop to catch mistakes early. Basic Structure and Validation
Begin with a shell that includes the doctype for HTML5 and basic metadata like the title. Use validation tools to check your code for errors and accessibility issues, making necessary adjustments. Adding Content
Focus on adding displayable content such as paragraphs and lists, and consider using an unordered list for items like favorite movies. Remember to include a footer for copyright information and continue validating your code to ensure it meets standards.
The importance of incorporating visual media into web design, particularly through the use of images and icons.
Understanding Visual Media
The internet has evolved from being text-only to incorporating various visual elements like images and icons. Adding images and icons to a webpage is essential for enhancing user experience. Accessibility of Visual Media
It's crucial to ensure that images are accessible by using alt text, transcripts, and aria-labels. Guidelines for alt text include describing the image's content and indicating link destinations for images within elements. Cross-Platform Image Accessibility
Understanding how to add alternative text on different platforms (e.g., social media) is important. Resources are provided for editing alternative text on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest, with a suggestion to search for specific instructions if needed.
The proper use of images in web design, emphasizing both technical and accessibility aspects.
Understanding Image Formats
Various image file types are supported, including JPEG, GIF, PNG, SVG, and BMP, and it's crucial to include the correct file extensions. Each image requires an HTTP request, which can slow down page loading, especially for users with slow internet connections. Image Sizing and Attributes
The size of images can be adjusted using width and height attributes in HTML, which helps maintain optimal display without skewing. Using percentages for width allows images to be responsive to different screen sizes, enhancing user experience. Importance of Alternative Text
Alternative text is essential for accessibility, providing descriptions for screen readers and displaying when images fail to load. Proper naming of image files and paths is important for functionality and search engine optimization.
The legal aspects of using images in web design.
Where to Get Images?
Copyright protection automatically applies to products, including images, preventing unauthorized use. It's essential to use images legally on your site, which can be done through various websites that offer content free of copyright restrictions. Resources for Usable Images
The University of Michigan provides a resource called "Finding Usable Materials," which links to sites for photographs, images, and icons that can be reused. Another resource, the "DEIJ Open Image Bank," offers links to high-quality image banks that emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The importance of using alternative text (alt text) for images in web design to enhance accessibility and improve user experience.
Understanding Alternative Text
Alt text provides a textual alternative for non-text content, helping screen readers convey image information to visually impaired users. It also serves as a placeholder when images fail to load, displaying meaningful descriptions instead of broken icons. Creating Effective Alt Text
Good alt text should be accurate and succinct, avoiding redundancy like "picture of" or "graphic of." For complex images, such as infographics, consider linking to a separate page with detailed descriptions instead of overloading alt text. Image Sourcing and Diversity
Use personal images or those from Creative Commons sources, ensuring proper usage rights. Incorporate diverse images to represent various cultures and body types, making the content more relatable and engaging for a wider audience.
Creating effective alternative text (alt text) for images is essential for accessibility. Here are some key points to consider:
Understanding Image Purpose
Determine if the image is decorative or informative; use a null text alternative for decorative images. For informative images, provide a concise description that captures the essential information. Crafting Alt Text
Prioritize the most important information at the beginning of the alt text. Avoid unnecessary words like "image" or "picture" in the description. Handling Complex Images
For complex images (e.g., graphs or charts), use a two-part text alternative: a short description and a long description that conveys essential information. Consider using resources like the W3 alt decision tree for guidance on creating alt text.
The concept of hyperlinks and their implementation in web pages.
Understanding Hyperlinks
Hyperlinks, or links, are essential for connecting documents on the web, allowing users to navigate from one page to another. Links are created using the anchor tag , which requires two components: a hyper reference (URL) and content (clickable text or image). Types of Links
Absolute Links: These contain a full URL, including the protocol (http/https), host, and document name, used for linking to external pages. Relative Links: These reference files within the same site, using just the file name or a path, making it easier to manage when moving files. Link Usability and Accessibility
It's important to use descriptive link names instead of generic terms like "click here" for better usability. When using images as links, ensure they have appropriate alt text for accessibility, allowing all users to understand the content.
HTML hyperlinks, which are essential for web navigation.
Opening Tag
The opening tag includes a hyper reference ("href") that specifies the link's destination, which can be external, internal, or a jump link. The target attribute can control how the link opens, but it may cause accessibility issues if not used carefully. Tag Contents
Hyperlinks can contain various content types, such as text, graphics, or videos, and should clearly indicate their purpose for accessibility. Descriptive alt text should be used for images, and the "aria-label" attribute is recommended for icons or graphics. Closing Tag
The closing tag is standard, but omitting it can result in unintended formatting, turning everything into a link until the next tag.
Essential HTML5 tags that are useful for web development.
Block Tags
Common block tags include
for paragraphs and
Tags such as
, ,tag creates a horizontal line, while is used for contact information, enhancing accessibility. Inline Tags and Special Tags
Inline tags like , , , , , , and allow for styling text without breaking the flow.
Special tags like , , , and <iframe> require JavaScript for full functionality and are used for interactive elements.
This overview emphasizes the importance of using specific tags for better semantic meaning and accessibility in web design.
The importance of web accessibility and the role of web accessibility professionals.
Web Accessibility Professionals
They guide policy and purchasing decisions for accessible software.
They evaluate web interfaces for accessibility and assist individuals with disabilities in accessing online resources.
Disabilities and the Web
Approximately 1 in 5 people in the U.S. have a disability, with many facing challenges using the internet.
Key issues include visual, hearing, motor, and cognitive disabilities, each requiring specific considerations in web design.
Four Principles of Accessible Interface Design
The four principles are: perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust.
Adhering to these principles and web standards is essential for creating accessible web pages for all users.
Assessing HTML5 support in various web browsers and ensuring accessibility for users relying on assistive technology.
Browser Testing
The HTML5 test at https://html5test.com/ evaluates how well different browsers support HTML5 features.
A comparison of browser versions (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari) highlights varying levels of HTML5 support.
Accessibility Considerations
It's essential to determine if HTML5 features are usable by individuals with disabilities without special workarounds.
The Html5accessibility site tests major browsers for keyboard accessibility and support for accessibility-related features.
The importance of validating code to ensure web accessibility and functionality.
Importance of Code Validation
Browsers often correct minor coding errors, which can lead to hidden issues in complex pages.
Bad code can severely impact accessibility tools, making it crucial to validate code.
Methods of Validation
Validate by URI: Requires the site to be hosted online; useful for public-facing websites.
Validate by File Name: Allows file uploads for validation, but can lead to errors if the wrong file is uploaded.
Validate by Direct Input: Users can copy and paste HTML code for line-by-line checking, which is often the most effective method.
Accessibility Validation
Use tools like wave.webaim.org to check accessibility.
It's essential to ensure that web pages are usable for everyone, including those using screen readers or other assistive technologies.
Validated sites are more robust and less likely to break, enhancing overall user experience.
Validating code is crucial for several reasons:
Error Detection: It helps identify and correct coding errors that may not be immediately visible, especially in complex web pages.
Accessibility: Proper validation ensures that web pages are accessible to all users, including those using assistive technologies like screen readers.
Robustness: Validated code is less likely to break, leading to a more stable and reliable website.
Standards Compliance: It ensures adherence to web standards, which can improve compatibility across different browsers and devices.
User Experience: A well-validated site enhances the overall user experience by providing a smoother and more functional interaction.
By validating your code, you contribute to a better web environment for everyone.
The essential steps for hosting a website, which involves obtaining a domain name and selecting a hosting service.
Domain Names
A domain name is the URL that users will type to access your site, typically purchased for multiple years.
While .com is the most common domain extension, alternatives like .net or .biz are also acceptable.
Hosting Services
Hosting services store your website files and make them accessible on the Internet, with options ranging from free to paid services.
Free services offer limited control and features, often including advertisements, while paid services provide better tools, technical support, and more control over your site.
Choosing the Right Service
Beginners are often advised to start with free hosting services before upgrading to paid options as their needs grow.
It's beneficial to explore free services offered by schools or workplaces, which may provide robust tools without the cost.
A domain name is the address that users type into a web browser to access a website. It typically consists of two main parts: the name itself (e.g., "example") and the extension (e.g., ".com"). Together, they form a complete URL, such as "www.example.com".
Importance of a Domain Name:
Identity: It serves as your online identity, making it easier for users to find and remember your website.
Credibility: A professional domain name enhances your credibility and can make your site appear more trustworthy.
Branding: It helps in establishing your brand and can reflect your business or personal identity.
Accessibility: A domain name allows users to access your site easily, as opposed to using an IP address, which is harder to remember.
In summary, a domain name is crucial for creating a recognizable and accessible online presence.
Introducing the Gamut Gallery, a tool designed for sharing digital artifacts and facilitating peer discussions.
What is the Gamut Gallery?
It serves as a digital platform for submitting and sharing artifacts like images or PDFs.
Users can receive feedback and ask questions about their submissions.
How does this course use Gamut Gallery?
Participation is encouraged but not mandatory, fostering a sense of community.
Learners are advised to review peers' work and provide thoughtful comments.
How can I get the most out of the Gamut Gallery?
Engage by responding thoroughly to prompts and explaining the rationale behind submissions.
Review and provide feedback on peers' submissions to enhance learning.
How is my privacy ensured when I use the Gallery?
Minimal personal information is collected, used solely for academic purposes.
Users can choose to remain anonymous when sharing work.
How do I report a digital accessibility barrier?
An accessibility feedback form is available for reporting issues to ensure inclusivity.
An introduction to HTML5, focusing on the foundational skills needed to create and understand web pages.
Course Structure
Learning About the Web: Understand the basics of how the web functions and the role of HTML in web development.
Structure of a Web Page: Learn about the essential components and structure of HTML documents.
Key Skills Developed
Common HTML5 Tags: Recognize and use various HTML5 tags effectively.
Using an Editor: Gain familiarity with web editors and how to utilize them for coding.
Creating Links and Images: Learn to compose HTML5 code that incorporates images and hyperlinks.
This course is designed for beginners with no prior programming experience and culminates in a final project to create a simple web page.
The course "Introduction to HTML5" aims to provide beginners with a foundational understanding of web design and development.
Course Overview
The course is designed for novices with no prior programming skills or IT experience.
It covers the theory of web interactions, practical skills for creating web pages, and the process of sharing code online.
Key Learning Objectives
Recognize and use common HTML5 tags.
Understand how to use an editor for composing HTML5 code that includes images and links.
Course Structure
The course consists of three weeks, focusing on learning about the web, the structure of a web page, and hosting/accessibility.
It culminates in a final project where students create a simple web page with links and images.
The foundational skills learned in HTML5 and the next steps for further development in web design.
Key Skills Acquired
Mastery of HTML5 tags, syntax, and semantics, providing a solid base for further learning.
Ability to view and edit code, create HTML files from scratch, and understand file management.
Accessibility and Validation
Introduction to evaluating accessibility through semantic tags and using tools like validator.org and WebAIM.
Understanding the importance of well-structured code for accessibility.
Next Steps in Learning
Encouragement to practice coding regularly and explore different editors and browsers.
Recommendation to learn Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) for enhancing web page aesthetics, with an invitation to join a CSS3 course.