Mastering Internet Development Microsoft ActiveX Technology
Microsoft Group

(3.5)

 

What is ActiveX Technology? It was created by Microsoft to allow developers to script and package functional objects (toolbars, forms, search engines, etc.) in applications. There are many practical uses of this technology in training and performance support on the Internet or an intranet. For example, ActiveX controls can be used to embed Excel spreadsheet controls on a Web page to automate report generation and data storage from remote locations.

To get the full benefit of this course, it’s best to load all of the software that comes on the disk - you’ll use it all. It includes an Internet mail program. You use the browser and plug-ins to research topics on the Web and to author simple Web pages in programs such as Word, Power Point, and Excel.

The program uses a Web browser interface and information is presented in multiple panes on the screen. The course outline is always visible and the learner can take the lessons in any order. I especially like the Find feature which lets you search for and display lessons according to particular topics.

Each lesson uses video, graphics, sound, and animation to demonstrate how to do the tasks. Although the program itself does not require you to apply the lessons learned, the content format delivers enough practical information to apply it easily. I was able to author HTML code in Power Point and lay in the pre-formatted controls in a matter of minutes.

Make no mistake, this is a long, involved course (about 40 hours) that takes some dedication to finish. Even with a technical background, I felt I was in over my head during some of the more complex lessons. However, my interest was always maintained by the frequent trips to the Web to see samples of Web-page design, current research articles, or graphic tips from HTML authors.

Some additional topics and activities covered in the course include: Authoring a Static Web Site, Developing Server-Side Extensions, Installing an Internet Server.

I highly recommend this program for experienced developers who are serious about implementing Internet/intranet solutions.

PC/CD-ROM, $99.00 (single user), Windows 95 and Windows NT.

Microsoft Group, (800) 426-9400.

Dr. Eric Parks is a contributing editor to "The Lakewood Report on Technology for Learning" newsletter and writes reviews of the latest in multimedia learning products.