The Networking Project

Goals.
Although we are tempted to state very general “coverage” style goals for the Networking project, it is possible to be more specific. We know that we are keeping this project pretty simple, since we want this book to be about Web sites, not about computer networks or any other example that we might come up with. Therefore, we are aiming the Networking Project at a beginning audience. The goals, then, are not going to be very complex. Instead, we have included the following:

	Given a diagram of a computer network, the learner will correctly label the server and client computers as well as hubs/switches, media (cabling), and peripherals such as printers.
	Given a topology, the learner will name two key facts about it.

Instructional analysis. The figure shows a basic instructional analysis of these two goals. It is not the most detailed analysis possible, nor is the only way of doing it. It will serve our purposes here, however. The analysis will represent what we want people to be able to learn from our instructional Web site.

Learners.
The target population for this Web site will be adult beginners in computer networking. They all have experience as computer users but they are new to setting up and running computer networks.

Context.
The environment for this instruction includes both the training classroom that we can expect our learners to be in during instruction and their potential work environment. Here are some details:

	Development environment: In developing this site we are using at least moderately good hardware and software. We have access to software and hardware that we can use to produce the graphics, audio, and video that we might need for the project. Naturally, we are using Microsoft FrontPage 2002 for our Web editor. Although we have high speed connections for most of the development work, we also have the ability to test the site over slower modems. Our development team consists of the two authors of this book.
	Technological context: The learners take some of the classes in training rooms that have high-speed connections to the Internet as well as enough computers for all participants. They have up-to-date software. All important Web features will work for these learners. Outside of the training classes, all students have access to the Internet from their work environments, where they will be expected to learn some concepts and skills on their own.
	Learning context: Most of the instruction in this case will take place in the training setting. However, it is expected that all participants will do some of their learning from their work environments. Although printed materials are also available, the best learning experiences will be on the Web.