The Evolution of DFTW: Perpetual Education's Continuous Curriculum Design

Perpetual Education's curriculum, DFTW (Design for The Web), is a progressive and thought-provoking approach to web development education. The curriculum's design is rooted in the recognition of individual differences in learning styles and the vast array of resources available to today's learners. This article delves into the methodology and philosophy behind DFTW, offering insights into its unique features and approach.

Understanding the Curriculum's Development

Years of teaching experience and the observation of diverse learning paths led to the development of DFTW. The initial concept was borne out of a question that queries what the most essential knowledge should be for a developer. This inquiry serves as the foundation for the curriculum, transforming it into a dynamic and adaptable educational tool. The curriculum is designed not to address the minutiae of every possible programming task, but to focus on the core essentials, ensuring that students have a strong foundational understanding.

Philosophy and Goals of DFTW

The primary goal of DFTW is to enable learners to understand and excel in the web development process holistically. The key philosophy differs from the traditional one-size-fits-all approach, emphasizing the importance of gaining a deep, strong foundation in the basics before diving into more complex topics. This approach not only enhances learning efficiency but also boosts confidence in the learners as they master each concept systematically.

Curriculum Structure and Methodology

The DFTW curriculum is structured around six days of learning and thinking, followed by one day of processing. Each day, students receive a lesson that focuses on a specific concept. This gradual introduction ensures that students can fully comprehend and absorb each topic before moving on to the next.

Components of DFTW Lessons:

A written article from an industry professional A video lesson that provides explanations with real-world stories and examples A set of things to think about throughout the day Additional resources for further exploration A set of daily challenges to practice the learned concept

Students also have access to a dedicated teacher and a team of fellow learners, fostering collaboration and peer support. Daily stand-ups are conducted to discuss and address challenges from the previous lesson, ensuring continuous feedback and improvement.

Continuous Improvement and Adaptation

One of the standout features of DFTW is its commitment to continuous improvement. The curriculum is not a static set of videos but a living, breathing entity that evolves with every group of students. Feedback and insights from both students and guest teachers are integrated into the curriculum, ensuring that it remains relevant and effective. This iterative process allows the curriculum to adapt to the evolving landscape of web development and the unique needs of each student.

The Future of DFTW

Perpetual Education has big plans for the future of DFTW. Beyond the current focus on web development, the curriculum will expand to cover a broader range of design and development concepts, creating a comprehensive educational ecosystem. The ultimate goal is to produce well-rounded, responsible, and courageous web developers who can think critically and innovate effectively. The curriculum will continue to grow and evolve, driven by the ever-changing requirements of the industry.

Conclusion

The DFTW curriculum from Perpetual Education exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to web development education. By focusing on foundational knowledge and continuous adaptation, DFTW empowers students to become proficient and confident web developers. As the curriculum continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of effective web development education, shaping the future of the industry.

If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to Perpetual Education at any time.