Course Title: Create dynamic web pages

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term1 2014

Course Code: COSC6120C

Course Title: Create dynamic web pages

School: 650T TAFE Business

Campus: City Campus

Program: C5300 - Diploma of Information Technology

Course Contact : Swati Dave (Program Manager)

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 5811

Course Contact Email:swati.dave@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Sarah Mackinnon   sarah.mackinnon@rmit.edu.au

Nominal Hours: 40

Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Pre-requisites and Co-requisites

None
This course is co-delivered and co-assessed with COSC6121C Integrate database with a website.

Course Description

This unit defines the competency required to build active or dynamic web pages using languages such as PHP.


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

ICAWEB502A Create dynamic web pages

Element:

1. Identify client and server-side dynamic content

Performance Criteria:

1.1 Review technical requirements
1.2 Identify sections of the website requiring client-side dynamic content
1.3 Identify sections of the website requiring server-side dynamic content
1.4 Select appropriate languages and technology to meet the requirements
 

Element:

2. Create dynamic content

Performance Criteria:

2.1 Create pages using appropriate languages
2.2 Ensure code conforms to current industry best practice and standards
 

Element:

3. Test dynamic pages

Performance Criteria:

3.1 Test website in a variety of browsers
3.2 Ensure required dynamic content functions according to specified requirements


Learning Outcomes



Details of Learning Activities

A range of learning activities are planned for this course including self-paced and collaborative classroom based activities.

Learning activities will include laboratory-based sessions on a variety of topics as shown in the weekly breakdown. Learning activities will generally consist of practical computer exercises based on teacher handouts. Students should attend all sessions.

Students will also be expected to undertake work on a variety of activities for homework.

The collaborative classroom based activities will include group discussion, group problem solving activities and opportunities to practice your skills in a simulated/real workplace environment.

We expect you to participate and contribute in all scheduled learning activities.
 


Teaching Schedule


The nominal hours associated with this are a guide only and represent the total teaching time and student effort required to successfully complete the course. This may include not only scheduled classes but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.
 

Week Week Commencing Topics Assessment Competencies Delivered 
1 10th Feb 2014

Pre-training review:
• RPL
• LLN as required

Familiarisation with:
• Program
• Services/facilities
• Other students
• Teacher(s)
• Where to get support
• Student responsibilities
• Course requirements
• Course support documents
• Pre-reading
• Blackboard

Overview of assessment requirements:
• Grading
• Plagiarism
• Appeals
• Extensions
• Feedback
• Privacy
• Submission requirements
• Resubmission policy

Introduction to Course & PHP:
• Course introduction & overview
• Introduction to jacob, WinSCP, PHP & variables

  ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A
2 17th Feb 2014 PHP crash course on variables, constants, functions, forms with GET & POST   ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A 
3 24th Feb 2014 PHP crash course on operators, functions, and include files. Intro to selection & loops   ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A 
4 3rd Mar 2014 Exercises on selection & loops using forms. Self-posting forms Task 1 - Individual Project Specification issued ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A
5 10th Mar 2014 PHP arrays including basic syntax, array functions, associative arrays & 2-D arrays   ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A
6 17th Mar 2014 PHP functions including function declarations, arguments, returns & calls. Forms & data validation functions   ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A
7 24th Mar 2014 PHP string functions. Email forms
Revision for class exercise with feedback
TASK 1 - Individual Project draft check ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A
8 31st Mar 2014 Class exercise with form & response pages.
Intro to MySQL syntax & Navicat
TASK 1 - Individual  Project requirements due ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A
9 7th Apr 2014 PHP MySQL Functions. A PHP search page & an insert page Task 2 - Group Project specification issued ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A 
10 14th Apr 2014 Database utility functions. Select pages, insert pages, detail pages & delete pages   ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A
 MID-SEMESTER Easter BREAK - Fri 18th Apr To 25th April, 2014 inclusive  
11 28th Apr 2014 Database utility functions. Update pages. Simple navigation. Web folder structure   ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A
12 5th May 2014 Client-side validation using JavaScript functions in include file. Work on project   ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A
13 12th May 2014 Database utility functions. Login security using session variables. Work on project TASK 2 - Group Project draft check ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A
14 19th May 2014 Final work on project TASK 2 - Group Project website due ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A
15 26th May 2014 System demonstrations in class. Work on project documentation TASK 2 - Group Project Documentation due ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A
 16 2nd  june 2014 Course & assessment feedback.
Re-submission of work if required
  ICAWEB502A
ICADBS504A


Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts

There is no prescribed text book for this course. However the following book is recommended for references:
 
Welling, L & Thomson, L, 4th Edition (2009), PHP and MySQL Web Development, Pearson Education, ISBN-13: 978-0672329166

It is expected that all students will purchase a copy of this text as soon as possible. Students will be working directly on various tasks from this book in most classes.
 


References


Other Resources

Other materials will include worksheets distributed by the teacher in class and various Websites and textbooks which will be indicated.


Overview of Assessment

Students must demonstrate an understanding of all elements of competency to be deemed competent.

A range of assessment methods are used to assess practical skills and knowledge, for example:

direct questioning combined with review of portfolios of evidence and third party workplace reports of on-the-job performance by the candidate
review of authenticated documents from the workplace or training environment
demonstration of techniques


Assessment Tasks

You are required to complete 2 assessment tasks. You must successfully complete all sections of each task to be deemed competent in this unit.

TASK 1 - Individual Project (Due Dates: Refer to Teaching Schedule)

For this assessment task you will be required to demonstrate a variety of dynamic Web pages for various business scenarios throughout the course. You will also be expected to develop MySQL databases to act as a back end for these Web pages. To be deemed competent in this task you will need to demonstrate particular skills in the following areas:

• connect to database
• user login form and registration (no sessions) with basic validation
• selection options using table info
• Display information from table (eg. products) with images
• Demonstrate loops, variables, strings, forms & basic sql statements
• No includes or templates - get them to create as much code from scratch as possible

TASK 2 - Group Project

For this assessment task you are required to develop a Website for an online store of your choice. The project consists of two parts, an online product catalogue and a user registration. Therefore students will be expected to work in groups on the project.

For each section of the project you will need to connect to a MySQL database consisting of one or more tables. You will be expected to create a variety of Web pages to select, insert, update and delete data. You will also be expected to demonstrate data validation using client-side script or server-side script.

As an option, you will be asked to develop a login system using session variables to enable appropriate access to the various Web pages on your site.

The project has been broken down into two stages. You must meet all the requirements of the project (as outlined below) to be deemed competent in this course.

STAGE 1 - Project Requirements (Due Dates: Refer to Teaching Schedule)

Firstly you will be expected to create a requirements document for your Website. This should include:

• A brief description of the features and functions of your section of the Website.
• A brief explanation of which sections of your Website will require server-side dynamic content using PHP linked to a MySQL database, and which might use client-side script such as JavaScript
• Mockups of at least two of the main pages in your section of the Website. You may wish to use screen shots of similar system or use special software to create mockups.
• A data dictionary or screen shot showing the design of a one or two table database acting as the back-end system for your website, as well as sample data

STAGE 2 - Project Website & Documentation (Due Dates: Refer to Teaching Schedule)

For this stage you will need to demonstrate in full each page and each feature of your part of the Website. For example you will be asked to demonstrate PHP select, insert, update and delete pages to manipulate data in your MYSQL database. You will also be expected to demonstrate and data validation or login security.

You will also be required to write and submit a report on your Website which includes each of the following:
 
• A detailed test plan (including screen shots) which shows how you tested at least two of your main pages, using a variety of valid and non-valid inputs and different browsers
• How and where you incorporated any examples of data validation into your Website.
• How you incorporated, or would incorporate, any security elements into your Website ie. What type of access is, or should be, granted to different types of users who logged in to your site
• How you overcame any major problems which you encountered in developing your Website.

Each time you demonstrate your Website you will be questioned on key concepts and techniques in using PHP. You will of course receive feedback in relation to the appearance and functionality of the site, particularly in relation to the initial client requirements. Timely completion of each stage is therefore essential.

Late submissions of work required for developmental stages of the project will be eligible for grading at pass level only.


Assessment Matrix

N/A

Other Information

Submission Requirements

Assessment tasks need to be submitted via Blackboard.

You should:

  • Ensure that you submit assessments on or before the due date. If your performance in the assessment is affected by unexpected circumstances, you should consider applying for Special Consideration. Information on the process and application forms is available at http://rmit.edu.au/browse;ID=ls0ydfokry9rz website.
     
  • Always retain a copy of your assessment tasks (hard copy and soft copy).
     
  • When you submit work for assessment at RMIT University you need to use a cover sheet that includes a declaration and statement of authorship. You must complete, sign and submit a cover sheet with all work you submit for assessment, whether individual or group work. On the cover sheet you declare that the work you are presenting for assessment is your own work. An assignment cover sheet for submission of work for assessment is available on blackboard.
     
  • Each page of your assessment should include footer with your name, student number, the title of the assessment, unit code and title and page numbers. For example, Julie Macpherson, 324567, Task 2, OHS2345C Ensure safe workplace, Page 1 of 10.
     

Late Submission Procedures

You are required to submit assessment items and/or ensure performance based assessment is completed by the due dates.

If you are prevented from submitting an assessment item on time, by circumstances outside your control, you may apply in advance to your teacher for an extension to the due date of up to seven calendar days.

More Information: http://www.rmit.edu.au/students/assessment/extension

Form to use: http://mams.rmit.edu.au/seca86tti4g4z.pdf

Where an extension of greater than seven days is needed, you must apply for special consideration. Applications for special consideration must be submitted no later than two working days after the assessment task deadline or scheduled examination.

More Information: http://www.rmit.edu.au/browse;ID=g43abm17hc9w

Form to use: http://mams.rmit.edu.au/8a5dgcaqvaes1.pdf


Resubmissions (VET Programs):


If you are found to be Not Yet Competent in a Course Assessment Task you will be allowed one resubmission only. Your teacher will provide feedback regarding what you need to do to improve and will set a new deadline for the resubmission. The highest grade you will receive if your resubmission is successful is “CAG”.

If you are still not meeting the assessment requirements you must apply to your Program Manager in writing outlining the steps you will take to demonstrate competence in your course. Your submission will be considered by the Program Team and you will be advised of the outcome as soon as possible.


Adjustments to Assessment

In certain circumstances students may be eligible for an assessment adjustment. For more information about the circumstances under which the assessment arrangements might be granted please access the following website:

More Information: http://rmit.edu.au/browse;ID=7usdbki1fjf31


Marking Guide (Competency):

Vocational Education and Training (VET) is based on current industry needs and the focus on preparing you for the workplace. Because VET courses are informed by practical application of knowledge and skills, they are based on a system known as ‘competency based training’ (CBT).

So when you are assessed in VET it is about whether you are competent to do the job, as well as having a firm grasp on the knowledge and skills required to do that job, as opposed to traditional curriculum based education settings that are often based on knowledge retention.

You need to demonstrate you are competent in each element of the unit of competency you are studying.

You will receive feedback on each assessment task that will inform you whether you are competent or not and how well you are performing. Once competent in all elements of the unit you receive a competency grading.

Please refer to the Final Grades table below.


Marking Guide (Grading):

After achieving competency we then grade your performance in the unit; this gives you the opportunity to have the level of your performance formally recognized against industry standards and employability skills.

The grading will include the following criteria:

1. LEVEL OF INDEPENDENCE, INITIATIVE, ENTERPRISE AND PERFORMANCE OF WORK TASK

We We are looking for a high level of ability to complete all tasks independently as per the specifications given to in class. You should endeavour to demonstrate a high level of initiative in your approach to planning and developing and testing PHP/MySQL-driven Websites for the various business scenarios investigated.

 2. DEMONSTRATED BREADTH OF UNDERPINNING KNOWLEDGE AND A WILLINGNESS TO CONTINUE LEARNING

We are looking for depth of understanding of the key concepts and knowledge required in planning and developing a variety of PHP/MySQL-driven Websites for the various business scenarios investigated. You should be able to demonstrate a thorough understanding of the techniques and concepts you have learnt in all assessment tasks.

 3. TECHNIQUES & PROCESSES, TECHNOLOGY SKILLS AND PROBLEM SOLVING

We are looking for appropriate use of a modern PHP and MySQL to produce effective business Websites as per client requirements. You should aim to consistently demonstrate your skills in each assessment task.

You also need to be able to overcome the various problems which that can arise in developing a PHP/MySQL-driven Website. You will need to demonstrate a degree of perseverance, and be able research possible solutions via the Web.

4. WORK ORGANISATION, PLANNING AND SELF MANAGEMENT

You should aim to attend all class sessions and save your solutions to all exercises and assessment tasks you have completed, for example on your home drive or USB device. An organised folder structure is highly recommended.

It will be very advantageous to prepare for and review class materials using suggested resources, such as the recommended textbook or Websites indicated by your teacher.

We also expect to see ongoing progress in class exercises and the Website project, full utilisation of Blackboard as per course guidelines and timely submission of all assessment tasks.

5. COMMUNICATION, PEOPLE NETWORKING, LANGUAGE AND INTERPERSONAL SKILLS AND TEAMWORK

We expect to see contributions to relevant discussions in class and with your team members. For the project in particular you will need to work effectively in a team, and manage your work to ensure timely completion and client approval. You should therefore also liaise with your client on a regular basis throughout the project.


Final Grades Table:


CHD      Competent with High Distinction
CDI        Competent with Distinction
CC         Competent with Credit
CAG      Competency Achieved – Graded
NYC       Not Yet Competent
DNS       Did Not Submit for assessment

Further information regarding the application of the grading criteria will be provided by your teacher.
 

 

 

Course Overview: Access Course Overview