In this sequence of activities, users learn HTML, the coding language used to write the web, and build their first web pages using the simplest possible tools. Learners also explore different web-based editors for building pages online. These activities should be done in sequence, as each activity builds on concepts and skills introduced in the previous activities.
Skills: Design, Code, Compose, Revise, Remix, Communication, Collaboration, Problem-Solving, Creativity
Tagging 101
In this discussion and online research activity, learners consider why and how they search the web, and learn about some of the ways software programs called search engines help deliver the requested information from among billions and billions of web resources. Learners practice writing good search queries, and they explore the concepts of indexing, linking, metadata, and are introduced to the concept of algorithms.
Building Basic Pages
In this offline tool-building activity, learners consider their experiences browsing the web for information—how do they know if a source is trustworthy? What cues or clues help them make that decision? Together, learners create a tool—a list of rules or guidelines for evaluating web sources—and test out this tool on a collection of web resources about the Kraken—a huge and terrifying sea creature—which may or may not lurk in the ocean depths.
Web Apps & Build With Thimble
In this discussion and online activity, learners explore how visual and experience design works on the web, and how web designers use their skills to encourage certain behaviors. Learners compare and contrast the visual elements of different pages and platforms. In pairs, they narrate and document “user journeys” through a web site-- a process that real-life web designers use to test and improve sites.
Web Builders
In this activity, we introduce learners to systems--called website builders or content management systems-- that many people (designers, developers, as well as web newcomers who are non-experts) use to create websites with lots of different pages and frequently updated content, such as blogs or shopping sites. Learners do some data collection, and use analog (pen and paper) examples to explore how web builders work.