The course introduces the concepts of PHP web server programming and the delivery of dynamic content via the web. The course aims to provide students with the basic constructs of the PHP language so that they are able to implement anything from basic feedback forms to more advanced database driven shopping cart solutions.

Strong emphasis will be put on understanding the interaction between user agents and server side code, data validation, the need for secure transactions, the tracking of site visitors and email communications.

Delegates can also gain professional qualification credits towards a University Certificate of Professional Development or degree from De Montfort University.

Overview

The course covers the following areas :

• Introduction to web server programming
  • Static vs. Dynamic Web Sites
  • Client-Side Scripting vs. Server-Side Scripting
  • Overview of PHP Advantages and Capabilities
  • Basic Scripting and Looping Constructs
  • Print Statement
  • Code Blocks
• Basic language constructs
  • Defining Constants and Variables
  • Looping Constructs
  • Conditional Constructs
  • Introduction to Functions
  • Passing and Returning Arguments through Functions
  • Using Include Files
  • Predefined PHP Functions
  • Array Functions
• Input and output
  • String Functions
  • Regular Expression Functions
  • Reading, Writing and Deleting Files
  • Reading Directory Contents
  • Authentication and Authorization
  • Data Validation

Overview cont.

• Web database connectivity
  • Working with Databases and Forms
  • PHP's SQL API
  • Simple SQL Queries via PHP
  • Connecting to MySQL
  • Executing SQL Calls
• User and session tracking
  • Working with Cookies
  • Tracking Visitors with Session IDs
  • Retrieving Data from Forms
• Email communication
  • Using Mail Servers (SMTP and Sendmail) for Client Communication
  • Configuring E-mail Output Parameters

Who is it aimed at?

This course is aimed at :

Existing web designers and application developers who are looking to add interactivity and dynamic content to their existing websites. The course does require a reasonable amount of technical understanding or knowledge of an existing programming language.

Entry requirements

Knowledge of an existing programming language or knowledge of web development at the HTML / XHTML level and a cognitive mindset.

Delivery method

The course is a 5 day fully trainer led course. To help reduce the effect on your business of losing a member of staff for 5 days, this course runs 1 day a week over 5 weeks. Delegates then have the time needed to absorb and implement the information gained during these intensive training days.