At UMPSA STEM Lab, we are committed to equipping students and teachers with the essential skills needed for the digital world. This web development course took participants from the basics of HTML to the intricacies of JavaScript, culminating in the creation of interactive web-based games. All coding exercises were conducted using W3Schools’ online simulator, allowing participants to test and run their code in real-time.
Starting with the Basics- HTML
The journey began with an introduction to HTML, the fundamental language used to structure web pages. Students and teachers were guided through the use of HTML tags, attributes, and elements, learning how to build the backbone of a webpage. Using the W3Schools online simulator, participants were able to immediately apply what they learned, experimenting with code in a safe and supportive environment. This immediate feedback loop helped solidify their understanding of HTML’s core principles.
Transitioning to Interactivity – JavaScript
Once the participants had a solid grasp of HTML, the course transitioned to JavaScript, the language that adds interactivity to web pages. Students and teachers explored JavaScript’s capabilities, learning how to create functions, handle events, and manipulate the Document Object Model (DOM). The W3Schools simulator was an invaluable tool in this phase, allowing participants to write, run, and debug their code directly in the browser. This practical approach ensured that learners could see the results of their code in real-time, deepening their understanding of how JavaScript brings web pages to life.
Creating Interactive Games- Applying Programming Concepts
The highlight of the course was the creation of interactive web-based games. Participants were introduced to key programming concepts such as control loops, variables, conditionals, and functions, all within the context of game development. By applying these concepts, students and teachers learned how to design and code simple, yet engaging games that could be played directly within a web browser.
The use of W3Schools’ simulator allowed for an interactive learning experience where participants could iteratively develop and improve their games. This hands-on project not only reinforced their understanding of programming concepts but also provided a tangible outcome that showcased their newly acquired skills.
Object-Oriented Programming -A Step Towards Advanced Coding
As the course progressed, participants were introduced to the basics of object-oriented programming (OOP). This module covered the creation of classes and objects, as well as the implementation of methods, which are essential for more complex and scalable coding projects. By incorporating OOP into their game development projects, students and teachers gained a deeper appreciation for the structure and organization of code, a critical skill for any aspiring developer.
Conclusion
The web development course at UMPSA STEM Lab successfully provided 36 secondary school students and teachers with the skills and knowledge necessary to create interactive web content. Through a carefully structured curriculum that combined theoretical learning with practical application, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of HTML and JavaScript.
The use of W3Schools’ online simulator was central to the course’s success, offering a real-time coding environment that encouraged experimentation and learning through doing. This approach not only built the participants’ confidence in their coding abilities but also demonstrated the power of hands-on learning in mastering complex subjects.
As we continue to deliver cutting-edge educational programs, we are proud to play a role in shaping the next generation of web developers. By empowering students and teachers with practical, real-world skills, we are helping them to navigate and contribute to the rapidly evolving digital landscape.