Introduction:

If you have never used a content management system before then this class is going to change the way you make and think about web sites! I have been making database driven websites for the last three years using content management systems and I may never go back. I helped to create a company dedicated to creating database driven websites using content management systems. I will show you how you can create scalable and dynamic websites using content management systems. Do you need an image gallery that the clients can update themselves, how about a comment system or a forum, all of this is done easily and cleanly using a CMS like Joomla.

Class Materials:

In this class you will create live database driven websites using a content management system called Joomla! Joomla is freely distributed software at http://joomla.org. To help us to do this, we will use the book, "Joomla! A User's Guide: Building a Successful Joomla! Powered Website," by Barrie M. North. Barrie has Joomla 1.5 and 1.6 versions of the text, even though the current version of Joomla is 1.7 purchasing one of the older texts can still be helpful, I am sure a 1.7 version is on the way.

I will also be pointing you to my online Joomla video tutorials at http://youtube.com/danscourses . We may also use Lynda.com for access to even more online training materials.

In this class there will be weekly assignments that build off of one another in the pursuit of building rich website projects! It should be a lot of fun.

Class Schedule:

This class is offered either as Self Directed Learning-SDL, or Online. SDL students are required to be in the Lab - GMB133, a minimum of 2.5 hours per week you will log your hours in the lab. Here are some questions you will want answered:

• When can I come to the Lab?
  I am in the GMB133 class/lab over 30 hours per week, for my exact lab times click on Lab/Classroom Hours.
• Can I work in the Lab when you are not there?
  Yes, if the door is open you are welcome to come in and work. If the door is locked try coming into the lab through GMB130 the Flex Lab. The Flex Lab opens Mon-Sat at 9am and is open late Tuesday until 9pm.
  
• Can I work with Joomla in the lab?.
  Yes I have computers that you can install Joomla on in the lab but you will probably want to install it on your own personal computer as well.
• Where can I get Joomla and how much does it cost?.
  You can download Joomla for free at http://joomla.org. Pat of the class is showing you how to install and implement Joomla. Joomla is free distributed, open source software.
  
• What if I am an online student, and I can't work with Joomla in the lab?
  If you are an online student you will need to work with Joomla at home using your personal computer.
• When should I come to class (SDL only)?
  As soon as you can you should stop by the Lab in GMB133 and introduce yourself. Remember SDL students are required to be working in the lab 2.5 hours per week. It is up to you to decide exactly what your schedule will be.

• How can I assure that I will be successful?
  The students that show up regularly, week by week, both online by logging in to DansCourses and in person by coming to the lab are the ones that will be successful. The class will not be finished unless you sit down and create a schedule of times that you will work on the class and its assignments.

• Is there a syllabus?
  The syllabus outlines the course, please download it and save it for your records: syllabus
• How will I turn in assignments?
  All assignments will be turned in as email attachments to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  

Week 1 Assignment - Download and Install WampServer