This summer I took a course through my university to learn a bit more about
web design. I previously had little to no experience with web design. I was
also about to embark on a project requiring making a website about hip
conditions for my medical school capstone project. I was initially not sure
these two endeavors (the class and the project) would overlap in terms of the
skills needed to create the hip conditions website and the content taught in
this course.
During the short 7-week course, I learned about how to use Webspace, a CMS,
in order to create a site. I also learned how to incorporate hand-coded
elements into content created using a CMS, via separate HTML and CSS
assignments. Another notable component of the course that was new for me is image
optimization. I previously knew nothing about file sizes, in particular how an
image that was seemingly identically to another one could be much smaller in
size.
Some of these exercises proved to be immensely helpful almost immediately.
For example, the same week we learned about how to incorporate stylistic
elements into an HTML script, I was able to apply this knowledge to the site I
am developing about orthopedic hip concerns. In order to build the site, my
mentor provided me with individuals who are well-versed in web design as
resources. However, because I was simultaneously taking this course, I was able
to do much more of the work than expected on my own.
Another thing I will take away from this course is that writing code, like
we did with the many HTML and CSS exercises, is actually quite enjoyable. I am
unsure of when I will apply and expand on these skills once my capstone project
is complete but feel like I gained a solid base of knowledge if I ever need to venture
into website development.
As I progress through medical school, I have encountered many health care
professionals and health care groups who have associated websites. The site is often
intended for patients to gain more information about providers, be able to compare
providers, and to book an appointment with them if necessary. In my experience,
the creation of these sites is mostly outsourced due to the “elusiveness” of
web design. By taking this course, I have a better understanding of what is
possible in the realm of website creation and feel as though I understand its component
parts.
Last but not least, this course was a refreshing break from my usually schoolwork,
which is centered around science and specifically medicine. I had many choices when
deciding what to take as an elective course (a requirement for the medical
school capstone project), many of them science related. Choosing to take the
web technologies course has given me exposure to a completely different field
from my own, allowing me to appreciate a different field of interest. I hope
you enjoy a glimpse of the orthopedic hip conditions website, which I have
incorporated a picture of at the top of this post.
Bread & Bones 