CSC 417: User Interfaces
Spring 2009

Instructor Dr. Robert Kline
office: 25 Univ. Ave. (UNA), #146
phone: 610-436-2181
email:
Office Hours MW 4:00–5:30     T 3:00–4:00
Website http://www.cs.wcupa.edu/~rkline/csc417/
Textbooks
Java Swing (2nd Edition),
Marc Loy, et. al.
O'Reilly, 2002, isbn: 1-596-00408-7 		Ajax for Dummies,
S. Holzner
Wiley, 2006, isbn: 0-471-78597-0
PHP in Action
Dagfinn Reiersol, et. al.
Manning, 2007, isbn: 1-932-39475-3 		Zend Framework in Action
Rob Allen, et. al.
Manning, 2008, isbn: 1-933-98832-0
Description This course deals with database-driven graphical user interface (GUI) applications in these forms: stand-alone Java applications & applets, server-side web scripting using Php server-side web scripting using a web framework (Zend/Php). The Model-View-Controller (MVC) paradigm is used as the guiding principle for creating these applications.

It is assumed that you know Java programming. Rudimentary SQL will be taught as needed. Regarding server-side web programming, the Php language will be taught from scratch. A background in HTML and JavaScript is helpful, but not required; it is assumed that, this being a senior-level course, you can learn these technologies as needed. The web programming will develop and focus on some AJAX usage.
Content The course content is based primarily on the instructor's notes. The textbooks are for reference as well as providing other perspectives on the material. Topics include:
  • Java JDBC database programming with MySQL.
  • Java Swing components, GUI designer applications, MVC design.
  • Java Applets & other topics.
  • Php language basics.
  • Php form entry scripts.
  • Sessions and state management.
  • Intro to AJAX and Dojo.
  • Php database access.
  • Zend Web framework.
Grading Your grade will be based on three equally weighted projects:
  • Project 1 (Java/JDBC/Swing)
  • Project 2 (Php Web/Database)
  • Project 3 (Web Framework)
Assignments should be done by you. Plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty at described in the Academic Honesty Policy.
Classroom
Behavior
Expectations 		You are expected to behave in a responsible manner during class:
  • Arrive on time and stay in your seat the whole class time unless you give prior notification to the instructor. In particular, go to the bathroom before class!
  • No laptops or other distracting electronic devices during class unless approved by instructor.
  • Attend most classes. Those who miss more than 5 (valid or other) classes are subject to grade deterioration.