For this project, you are required to design and create an HTML document (also referred to as a "Web page"), in which certain basic HTML elements are incorporated. Your HTML document must also link to several Java applets, some of which you will compile yourself from the code provided, and some you will obtain from online sources and simply link to in your HTML document.
In addition, you will input, compile, and test a simple Java application. Unlike Java Applets, which are linked and run from within HTML files, Java applications run freestanding, and can be run from the DOS Command Line.
This project is designed to familiarize you with Java tools and processes, including editing, compiling, and viewing applets and applications, as well as with the methods for using Java Applets in Web documents.
The project does not aim to teach you to program in Java, which is beyond the scope of this course, but rather to familiarize you with the use of the Java environment and tools, in preparation for future courses in programming.
There are two related learning objectives involved:
1. Creating HTML documents.
2. Using Java Development Kit tools (primarily the compiler and appletviewer) to edit, compile, and test Java Applets (which will then be run from your HTML pages) and Applications (which can be run from the Command Prompt).
Your Web page design should use an effective background image or pattern, and various colours, text sizes, and images to create a visually effective design. Your Web page should also include your name, the course name and number, an email link to you, and links to the required Java Applets and navigation links to facilitate easy movement within the pages.
The project has two parts:
- Part 1-Applets you will create from the code provided.
- Part 2-A sample downloadable Applet, which you will obtain from an online source. These usually include ready-to-run Class files, as well as the HTML code that launches them.
The recommended procedure for completing this project is as follows:
1. Review all the project instructions and study the JAVA PROJECT DEMO.
** Note that the applets in the demo project are slightly different from those that will be produced when you input and compile the code supplied below.
2. Work through the HTML tutorials, and study the HTML code in the sample project pages until you are confident you can create your own HTML pages to package the Java Applets.
3. Build the HTML pages (without the Java Applet links for now), and test them for navigation and other basic functionality.
4. Download and install the current active version of the Java Development Kit.
**NOTE: Do not use older versions OR unreleased Beta versions of the JDK as this will result in file compatibility issues with your tutors version of the software.
5. If necessary, work through the DOS tutorial (DOS Primer) to familiarize yourself with basic command line functions, including:
o opening and using an MS-DOS window
o changing directories
o running programs from the command line
o viewing file lists (directory command) in DOS
o editing batch files to set path commands
6. Input, compile, and test the Part 1 Applets, and link them to your HTML pages.
7. Download and test the Part 2 sample Applet of your choice, then add the HTML code to your Project pages.
8. Test the entire project, compress it with WinZip, and submit it to your tutor.
Again, it is very important that you carefully review the JAVA PROJECT DEMO to see an example of what the finished project may look like, although you are encouraged to create an original "look and feel" for your own pages. The applet results seen in Part 1 of the Project Demo must be different from those you will create for your page; i.e., you must compile the code yourself, and not simply copy the compiled class files from the sample.
There are extensive links for tutorials, software tools, and other useful resources at the Virtual Helpdesk. Check both the Course Tools and the Java Help sections. Links to other required and useful resources can be found below.