Course overview

A modern web development course that teaches you how to build using real world tools and practices. From getting comfortable with the terminal and Git to understanding JavaScript as a programming language and onwards to React and NextJS.

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Part 1

Development Environment & Setup

Get your development environment configured and learn essential tools for professional web development.

  1. Welcome to SWIC Web Development

    Course introduction, learning mindset, and how to effectively use AI tools for web development.

  2. Modern Developer Tools

    Overview of professional development tools: Git, GitHub, VS Code, Node.js, and the modern web development workflow.

  3. Mac Setup Guide

    Complete setup instructions for Mac users: Homebrew, VS Code, Node.js, and Git.

  4. Windows Setup Guide

    Step-by-step setup instructions for Windows users with direct downloads and installations.

  5. Terminal Fundamentals

    Learn the basics of using the terminal, including navigation, file manipulation, and command execution.

  6. Git Fundamentals

    Learn Git workflow with text files and how to write meaningful commit messages from day one.

  7. Learn Markdown

    Master the basics of Markdown syntax for formatting text documents.

  8. Terminal + Git

    Reinforce using Git and Terminal commands.

  9. Node.js Template Repository

    Learn how to set up a Node.js template repository for your projects.

Part 2

Web Development Fundamentals

Understanding how the web works and introduction to programming concepts that will guide your development journey.

  1. How Computers and the Web Work

    Understanding the foundational concepts of how computers process information and how the web functions under the hood.

  2. What is JavaScript?

    Introduction to JavaScript: what it is, what it can do, and how it fits into modern web development.

  3. AI Reality Check: Beyond the Hype

    A balanced look at AI's role in development: separating hype from reality, addressing concerns, and using AI as a learning tool.

Part 3

JavaScript Basics

Learn the fundamentals of JavaScript, including variables, data types, operators, and basic syntax.

  1. Values, Types, and Operators

    Explore JavaScript's core data types, operators, and how to work with them effectively.

  2. Program Structure & Variables

    Learn about variables, program structure, and hands-on JavaScript coding using the browser console.

  3. Control Flow, Conditionals and Loops

    Learn how programs make decisions with conditionals and handle repetitive tasks with loops - the building blocks of intelligent programs.

Part 4

JS Review & React Prep

This review will reacquaint you with the core concepts of JavaScript, including variables, functions, and control flow.

  1. Variables and Types

    Understanding variables and data types in JavaScript.

  2. Functions and Scope

    A review of function concepts in JavaScript, focusing on their relevance in React.

  3. Objects and Arrays

    Master JavaScript objects and arrays - essential data structures for React development.