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HTML/CSS skills are essential today in almost any field. How does HTML work? What does CSS do? What is HTML5?
In this class we'll tackle the basics. How to construct a basic HTML page. How to link a stylesheet. Recognize the difference between CSS and HTML. We'll also discuss what tools you'll need including a code editor and FTP program. We'll also discuss how to use these skills with popular tools like WordPress and Tumblr to make your site amazing.
Some topics of discussion:
Who should take this class?
If you have a site built already but don't understand basic HTML/CSS. If you have plans to build a site and want to get a base understanding of HTML/CSS before starting.
Who should not take this class?
If you aren't commited to building a website yet this class may be a little above you. Consider learning about your options first. This class is only for those who are set on building a site or set on expanding one. You might instead consider this conceptual class: Why You Should be Blogging.
What will I learn in this class?
What tools are used to build a webpage in HTML and CSS. How CSS and HTML relate to one another and how they are organized within a site. How hosting works and what FTP does. Recommendations on hosting options. Where to use HTML and CSS in sites like WordPress and Tumblr. While it's impossible to anticpate if you'll learn everything you need to know this class focuses on a core funcitonal understanding of HTML/CSS basics. You should walk away knowing the differences and where to go to learn more.
Can I take the class again?
While you will probably be surprised at the amount of information we will cover in the 90 minutes, as with most learning it’s repetition that will really make it stick. Where to go from there is up to you. During the class we will discuss a number of resources available for further learning such as websites and books. They’ll range from free discussion-based forums to courses that you can take online at your convenience. Taking the class more than once can help cement ideas as well as review what you’ve learned and see how far you’ve come but isn’t necessary. You might also consider taking Website Bootcamp for Creative Professionals or WordPress.org vs WordPress.com: Getting Started with WordPress.
What sort of background should I have prior to taking the class?
You should have a basic understanding of how a website operates or have one set up already. This class is meant to teach functional skills in HTML and CSS. If you have a blog on Tumblr or a site in WordPress all the better! HTML/CSS skills will unlock some of the hidden tools you aren't currently taking advantage of. If you haven't decided that you need a website yet or are still confused on your options consider this class instead: Why You Should be Blogging.
Should I bring my computer with me?
Bringing your computer should be fine provided you are respectful of the time of others and aren’t too distracting from the topic at hand. The class shouldn’t have to come to a halt if you have your head down while the class is pushing forward. So yes, you can bring your computer but please be respectful when using it during class time.
Nate founded Pedestrian Consulting in 2011 to focus on technical literacy. He writes, speaks and teaches on subjects such as blogging, social media, entrepreneurship and technology. Forbes has said Nate "gives practical and insightful advice.." -- Forbes 2012
In addition to writing for Mashable, Nate is a regular contributor to The Freelance Strategist blog on Contently. He has taught at the University of California Santa Cruz and Apple Inc. He's currently writing a comic book to teach web basics.