ESSA Learning Programmes in Estonia: Web Application Developer Programme
Since 1993, BCS Koolitus has established itself as the leading ICT continuing education provider in Estonia, focusing on lifelong learning for IT specialists, end-users, and managers across a range of ICT topics. As an active partner in the European Software Skills Alliance (ESSA) project, BCS Koolitus has contributed significantly to curriculum development, piloting, and implementing Work-Based Learning (WBL) approaches. Through these efforts, BCS Koolitus underscores the role of ongoing education in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
In line with ESSA’s mission, BCS Koolitus launched a pilot programme from August to October 2024, focusing on Web Development. This introductory programme aimed to equip individuals with essential skills in web application development, creating opportunities for participants to enter the software development field. Five individuals joined this hands-on learning experience, and positive feedback from participants reinforced the value of this initiative. The programme has already inspired at least one participant to pursue further software development education in a vocational setting, showcasing its transformative impact.
About the Web Application Developer Programme
Participants in the program had the opportunity to acquire foundational knowledge and skills for creating web applications.
The program covered 10 key topics over eight weeks, with classes held 2-4 days per week. Training was delivered in both classroom and virtual settings, though most learners opted for in-person sessions.
- Week 1: Software Development and Web Development Fundamentals
The first week introduced the basics of software and web development, providing hands-on experience with Visual Studio Code and foundational technologies like HTML5 and CSS3. Participants learned key concepts of the software lifecycle and agile development.
- Week 2: CSS3 Fundamentals
The second week focused on CSS3 and responsive design principles, helping learners create web layouts that adapt seamlessly to various devices.
- Week 3: Website visualisation
Participants explored website design tools, creating sitemaps and wireframes as they began developing their first website prototype.
- Week 4: UI/UX and JavaScript basics
This week introduced the principles of UI/UX design and basic JavaScript programming, with participants writing their first JavaScript programs and learning about testing fundamentals.
- Week 5: Programming in JavaScript, working with prototype
Building on previous JavaScript concepts, participants enhanced their prototypes by incorporating loops, arrays, and strings, further developing their technical skills.
- Week 6: Agile methods and programming in PHP
Participants explored agile development methodologies and started programming in PHP, marking their entry into back-end development.
- Week 7: PHP and MySQL
Learners began integrating databases by working with MySQL, using PHP to manage database communication. They also received mentorship as they developed their web application projects.
- Week 8: Project
In the final week, participants presented their completed projects, showcasing the skills and knowledge acquired during the course.
Objectives of the Learning Programme Pilot
The Web Application Developer Programme was structured to offer participants insights into software development principles, with a specific focus on web application design and creation. The overarching goal was to enable learners from various backgrounds to explore the software development field, equipping them with foundational knowledge in front-end and back-end technologies. By gathering participant feedback, BCS Koolitus identified areas for improvement in the curriculum, enhancing the course content to better serve future learners.
BCS Koolitus’s Web Development programme aligns with ESSA’s mission to foster digital skills and promote lifelong learning in the ICT sector. As digital literacy becomes increasingly vital across industries, programmes like this serve as valuable entry points for individuals seeking to build careers in software development. This pilot is an essential step in supporting the development of digital competencies across Europe, ensuring that learners are prepared for the demands of the modern workforce.