Suggestions for education / training

[rkfcomputers]

I have been working with web sites off and on for about 10 years, just learning what I need as I go. I am fairly comfortable with Photoshop & Dreamweaver but have never had any formal training.

I am feeling the need for some structured, formalized training to cover the background steps, procedures and thought processes involved in web site design (especially CSS and PHP).

There are tonnes of sites that offer tutorials ... what I'd like to know is what are the good, quality, worthwhile places / schools to go for training? I'd prefer an online class since I can't often get out to school on a regular basis.

Thanks!

Ryan

[holyhttp]

Hi Ryan,

The first thing you need to learn if you want to become a serious web designer or developer is HTML.
I learned it within a week thanks to a great book "HTML in 24 hours".
Once you have HTML mastered then CSS becomes just an extension. Even with free online tutorials you can get a hang of it.
As for PHP the language by itself is pretty simple and straightforward. However when it comes to programming, the language is secondary. What's important is knowing the main concepts then you can learn & use any language to get the job done.

http://www.w3schools.com/ is a place to start for great tutorials.
Of course it doesn't matter what you learn and where you learn it, only practice will get you to the point you want to reach.

[rkfcomputers]

Thanks!

Maybe I didn't explain myself very well. I am comfortable using http, PHP and CSS (although I know there's more I could learn). I could do 10 minute tutorials all day but I feel like they do not provide a "big picture" perspective. I'm interested in learning the concepts and perspectives of complete web design (graphics, coding, SEO) from a professional approach.

Ryan

[ran_dizolph]

Ryan,

to be honest, i really don't think what you're after can just be 'taught' to you. I mean, think about it...the industry changes so frequently, you would NEVER graduate!

It takes years of experiencing everything first-hand, trial-and-error, successes, failures, et al. to get a solid grasp of what works and what doesn't.

SEO is an especially tricky one given the dynamic nature of the industry. As far as that is concerned, I'd either focus ALL my efforts on becoming an expert in that field and that alone, or just work on building the best websites that you can.

I know this doesn't really answer your question...but I'm thinkin' it's about as close as you'll get.

Best of luck.

[Dubbya]

If you're comfortable with your skills in HTML, CSS and general web programming, why not consider signing up for a project management course at your local community college. Most offer evening courses you can attend one night a week.

You'll gain more knowledge in a less time in that the courses usually focus on what works. Software and programs change all the time but the fundamentals and processes remain the same.

You'll get structured, formalized training to help you master the skills you need to develop a project from the ground up.

It will take some sacrifice and cost some money but you'll more than make it all back with the time, effort and money you save on every project you run.