Coding for Designers, Managers, & Entrepreneurs II

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/uva-coding-for-design-managers-2

Introduction

**Course Review: Coding for Designers, Managers, & Entrepreneurs II** If you're a designer, manager, or entrepreneur looking to bridge the gap between design and development, "Coding for Designers, Managers, & Entrepreneurs II" on Coursera is an excellent opportunity to gain practical coding experience while enhancing your collaboration skills with developers. This course serves as the second installment in the specialization designed for non-programmers who want to become more effective contributors in tech-driven environments. ### Course Overview The course brilliantly emphasizes the transition from concept to execution by teaching how to create interactive user interfaces (UIs) using JavaScript. It aims not just to equip you with technical skills, but also to nurture the creative confidence needed for effective collaboration on digital projects. Whether you're managing a team or focusing on user experience, this course will provide valuable insights and tools to enhance your contributions to your organization. ### Course Syllabus **1. Making Stuff Happen with JavaScript** In this section, you will be introduced to JavaScript through the widely-used library, jQuery. The focus is on leveraging pre-built functions to manipulate web pages effectively, making it accessible for beginners while still providing depth for those with prior experience. The layered resources allow participants to build toward a comprehensive understanding of the basics, ensuring that everyone can find their footing as they learn to code. **2. Debugging JavaScript** One of the most advantageous skills for anyone stepping into coding is the ability to debug. This week focuses on analytical debugging as a critical part of programming, turning it into a systematic process rather than an annoying obstacle. The instructor encourages students to embrace this mindset, helping them develop problem-solving skills not just for coding but in other areas of their work as well. **3. Creating Your Web Application II** This section allows you to take a previously created prototype from HTML and CSS and infuse it with life by incorporating JavaScript. This part of the course emphasizes the importance of planning and understanding user stories to create interactive UIs. You will learn how to enhance functionality and design with clear objectives, which is crucial for not only coding but also for project management and design thinking. ### Pros - **Tailored for Non-Developers:** The course structure and content are specifically designed for collaborators who may not have a technical background but wish to better understand the coding process. - **Hands-on Learning:** Participants work on real projects, allowing for practical application of the concepts learned. - **Comprehensive Resources:** With layered learning resources, users can progress at their own pace, making it suitable for a wide range of learners. - **Focus on Collaboration:** Emphasizes skills that enhance teamwork with developers, fostering a better understanding of the technical aspects of projects. ### Cons - **Time Commitment:** Some learners might find the amount of material and the hands-on activities demanding in terms of time and effort. - **Layered Learning May Not Suit Everyone:** While many will appreciate the depth offered, those looking for a quick overview of JavaScript might feel overwhelmed by the details. ### Recommendation I highly recommend "Coding for Designers, Managers, & Entrepreneurs II" for anyone involved in product design, management, or entrepreneurship who wishes to grasp the basics of coding and improve their collaborative skills. This course not only provides fundamental coding knowledge but also a mindset for problem-solving and effective project management. Overall, this course is an excellent investment in both personal and professional development in today’s digital landscape. Whether you're starting your journey in coding or looking to deepen your existing knowledge, this course is an invaluable resource that equips you with the skills to create impactful user interfaces while strengthening your ability to communicate with technical team members. Enroll today to transform your ideas into functional code!

Syllabus

Making Stuff Happen with Javascript

This week, we’re going to dive into Javascript with a focus on user interfaces. We’ll do this with a Javascript library called JQuery that provides pre-built functions we can use to control web page. As with Course 1, I’ve got a layered set of resources for you to use in getting a handle on the basics. As before, try to find a minimum that gives you comfort with the fundamentals where you can work your way through the specifics of the case.

You’ve probably heard this from me before, but to debug is to code. Rather than seeing this week as a kind of exception or necessary nuisance, I hope you’ll immerse yourself in the process and mentality of analytical debugging. Personally, I’ve found that the process of analytical debugging has helped me think generally in a more disciplined and systematic way about what I’m trying to do and how I’m going to do it.

Now it’s time to take the prototype you created with HTML & CSS in Course 1 of the specialization and bring it to life with Javascript. How do you do that? Well, I think that once you figure out exactly what you want to have happen, you’ll find it’s relatively easy- so start there. Based on the user stories you selected and/or drafted, the UI comparables you reviewed, and your approach to the current prototype, what would make the interface better? More functional? Nothing will help you through your coding like a nice clear idea of what you’re trying to have happen. Note 1: If you started here in the specialization, you’ll want to work from the options in the brief to build a prototype on JS Fiddle in HTML and CSS, and then layer in some Javascript. Note 2: If you’d like to start with a new concept from the brief for this course, that’s fine.