These courses address a variety of course topics that are essential building blocks for the mastery of user experience on the web for both desktop and mobile environments. Topics for fall 2013 include the following: Information Architecture: Good information architecture is achieved through the careful placement of meaning and structure in support of clear goals. An information architect’s (IAs) process can lend a useful set of tools and ideas to provide a framework when understanding and designing for a user experience. In this class we will focus on the process and tools that IAs use in their pursuit of understanding and clarity. Each week we will have a short lecture, followed by a workshop. There will be weekly reading assignments, individual assignments as well as a semester-long group project. Javascript: With the rapid evolvement of HTML5 in the past few years, the web has grown into a mature platform with infinite possibilities. This course focuses on creative explorations using web technologies while introducing some of the more advanced concepts and best practices in modern front-end web development. Topics will include 2D graphics and animation, latest HTML5 and CSS3 features, data-driven applications, and techniques for creating captivating interactivity. Content Management Systems: This course will explore the use of open-source content management systems (CMS) to build and maintain dynamic web sites. We will focus on best practices in the Web Development process, using CMS to organize and publish content, and create custom design and user interface elements.