Do I need a computer?
Yes. You will need a laptop for class. However you may find that some of the campus computer labs will work for you outside of class as well, and contain the software we will be using. But increasingly, I have found that students really like to use their own software on their own machines. I normally do have an extra Mac and a Windows computer that can be used in the classroom.
What type of laptop do I need?
Virtually any laptop will work for class. Any Mac or PC made within the past three or four years should be sufficient.
You will find the differences between Windows and Mac OS is a matter of personal taste. With the software, there is virtually no difference between the Mac and Windows versions in terms of usability and function. Outside of key commands, in fact they normally identical.
What about software?
We will furnish you with what you need to get started. Once you start building your own Web site you will find that Adobe Creative Suite will work the best. You can buy the software at the bookstore at Coffman for 80% off list price. In fact you can save 25% over Adobe's best educational price by purchasing the software from the bookstore or a U of MN approved vendor. There are also subscriptions and free trial versions available.
Do I have to use CS5.5 or CS6?
No. You will find that the features of Photoshop and Dreamweaver that we will use have been in the past 3 or 4 versions. If you have CS4 or CS 5 you will find they work great. In fact you can use CS2 or CS3 with no problem.
I like open source software. Can I use GIMP and KompoZer instead?
These are free alternatives. I have had students use them in the past. It probably helps if you are at least familiar with Photoshop and Dreamweaver to use these. And you have to be very familiar with your computer and willing to work with software that may be less stable. But, if you like it—go for it.
If I do want to buy it now what should I get?
Get the Adobe CS 6 Design and Web Premium. If you do video and use Adobe Premier you can get the Master Collection which contains most of the Adobe software available for direct sale.
This is new. In the past the Design Premium and the Web Premium were slightly different. If you have CS5.5 or earlier, either the Design or Web packages contain the software we will use.
Are there any textbooks I need to buy?
NO! You will be given course text and notes. In the past these sold for $75 to $150 in the bookstore. The notes will be passed out the first night of class along with the Mac and PC software to get you started. Furthermore the class exercises will be posted online as a video if you need a review.
I still have some questions. What should I do?
Feel free to contact the instructor, David Husom. He is at: husom001@umn.edu
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