GEORGIA COLLEGE & STATE UNIVERSITY COURSE SYLLABUS [Printable Word Version Here]

Catalog Description: This course meets special needs of the students and/or the community. Approval of the department chairperson is required prior to registration.

Objectives:  Each student will:

1. demonstrate a working knowledge of XHTML and related technologies

2. explain and differentiate between client-side and server-side programming

3. demonstrate a working knowledge of the principles of client-side programming, including form validation

4. demonstrate a working knowledge of Web server setup and basic administration skills

5. demonstrate a working knowledge of Web database setup

6. develop, debug, and demonstrate the operation of programs designed for businesses using PHP

7. demonstrate the ability to use pattern recognition to isolate & correct programming problems

8. develop, debug, and demonstrate the operation of interactive Web databases in PHP and MySQL

9. combine client-side and server-side programming to produce secure Web transactions in a business-related portfolio project.

The final product of this course will be a reusable, interactive, secure Web database project with a business-oriented focus. This product is intended to be a useful portfolio item for Management Information Systems or Business & Technical Communications majors. This class will be run as a normal information system shop.  There is constant pressure in meeting schedules.  Do not fall behind – it is almost impossible to catch up.  Success for MIS majors is defined as a C or better.

Required Text: PHP and MySQL for Dynamic Web Sites: Visual QuickPro Guide. Larry Ullman. Peachpit Press; 1st edition (May 21, 2003). ISBN: 0321186486.

Software:  A Javascript capable Internet browser, such as Foxfire (recommended), Netscape, Mozilla, Opera, or Internet Explorer. Server space for student projects will be provided on the ISCM department server (http://www.iscm.gcsu.edu).

Grading: 

• Labs: 25% 
• Term Project: 20% 
• Exam 1: 15% 
• Exam 2: 15% 
• Final Exam: 25%

1. Labs are due at the beginning of the next class period, online on the Web server assigned to this course. Programs will not be accepted after class begins unless prior written approval is granted by the instructor.
2. Each student is expected to attend class regularly, be on time, and be responsible for any work missed due to absences. 
3. There will be no make-up of scheduled exams. If the tests are missed without prior approval, a grade of zero will result. The final is mandatory.

Honesty Code: Unless otherwise specified by the instructor, the default policy in courses in the Information Systems, Communications & Marketing Department is that students are allowed and encouraged to discuss programming and project assignments with each other. However, the submitted programs and/or projects must be their own work--each student must write the program and/or project independently. Sharing of code is not allowed and will result in a grade of ZERO for the entire project in the case of shared code, at the professor's discretion, possibly subject to an academic integrity review committee. 

Fire Drill Procedures: In the event of a fire signal students will exit the building in a quick and orderly manner through the nearest hallway exit.  Learn the floor plan and exits of this building.  Do not use elevators.  Crawl on the floor if you encounter heavy smoke.  Assist disabled persons and others if possible without endangering your own life.  Assemble for a head count.

Requests for Modifications: Any student requiring instructional modifications due to a documented disability should make an appointment to meet with the instructor as soon as possible.  An official letter from GC&SU documenting the disability will be expected in order to receive accommodations.

Tentative Course Outline

The last day for withdrawal without academic penalty is March 4, 2005.

THIS COURSE OUTLINE PROVIDES A GENERAL PLAN FOR THE COURSE.  DEVIATIONS MAY BE NECESSARY.