Building a Website

A "web page" is simpler than it seems. A web page consists of text and graphics described by HTML - that's all! The text in a web page can include a link to another page or pages; collectively these pages constitute a "web site." So, a "web site" is a logically organized, thematically or topically related collection of related web pages. These simple definitions have been overshadowed by ubiquity and technology. Yes, these web pages are everywhere, and yes, some sophisticated tools can be used to create and distribute them. Note that "can" be used does not mean such tools "must" be used.

Making Yourself Available

DoIT has created and maintains the infrastructure needed to publish a web site, so you can focus on the fun part: making your words instantly available to the world (or at least that part of world interested in something you have to say). The chief advantage of web publishing is the "instant availability" of content. The benefits of this "instant availability" to you include:

 

  • - A resource to refer students to, so you can avoid answering the same questions over and over again (e.g., your name, office & location, phone number and email address).
  • - Replacing the sheaf of paperwork often handed out when classes start - a course outline, your expectations of students, the syllabus, course schedule and a glossary, to name a few things.
  • - Easy revision. You can update your web site as often as you wish.
  • - Multi-media support, including Adobe Flash animation, Podcasts, video recordings, and other dynamic presentation tools.

Where to Publish on Campus

There are several places (virtually speaking) to publish your web page or site at Creighton:

  1. You can use your personal web space on the "People" server
  2. In BlackBoard (inside your course's Blackboard web site)
  3. On an "official" Creighton University web site.

Website Topics

HTML Tools
There are several ways to publish a website, and there are more than a few tools to help you get it done. Take a look at just a few tools that will make getting your site online a little easier.
HTML Best Practice
Before you get too far along you might want to take some advice to make building and mantaining your website a little easier and your student's experience a whole lot better.

Additional Resources

HTMLDog.com: A Beginners Guide to HTML

Webmonkey.com: The HTML Basics

Lynda.com: FrontPage tutorial Some lessons are free but to get the complete series you need to subscribe.

Getting Started with Dreamweaver 8

Nvu A free website authoring tool