Teaching Web Composition

Selected Links

There are a number of concerns raised when we try to teach Web composition. On a practical level, we must learn to compose the HTML pages and handle Web files. On a pedagogical level, we can rethink assignments, reassess the nature of student work and develop our thinking of design. The two sections below sketch some basic strategies for presenting Web composition.

Pre Writing

This "Pre Writing" section demonstrates ways of establishing the relationships between HTML files, browsers and servers. It also discusses using the document/head/body distinction as a way of introducing HTML pages. Additionally, viewing the HTML source of Web files demystifies Web pages and provides useful models.

Logistics and Design

This section points toward basic HTML resources then discusses two models for Web projects. A "flat" model uses a single page and provides links to remote sites on the Web. This model might prove useful for resource based assignments or evaluation projects. A "deeper" model can be built using relative links. These models may be useful for collaborative or extended research projects. The section also makes recommendations and provides resources for design.

The strategies and models used in the sections are offered as initial ways of thinking about teaching Web composition. Find out what else is out there by looking through the links below.

WWW Authoring Information: A nice collection of HTML authoring information.
UT Austin's Learning to Publish Site: Geared toward students at UT, this site, however, take a useful approach for beginners.
Ian S Grahm's Introduction to HTML: A Useful spot for information about the basic HTML commands.
HyperLiterature/HyperTheory: A great collection of online readings and links to hyperprojects.