Developing web server laboratories

Abstract

The aim of this thesis project was to develop laboratory material relating to Linux server applications, and to provide students with hands-on learning experience of web server application. The laboratory exercises were designed in Linux environment and the exercises were made suitable either for classroom use in the introductory level of web application related courses, or for students self study. However, the potency of the exercises developed were evaluated both formally by the lecturer and informally through discussions with student. The result signifies that the development and implementation of the laboratory exercises would enhance student learning.

The laboratory exercises was developed in a virtual environment using the Vmware virtual tool. The reason for this is to enable students perform experiment without endangering the host PC, particularly in the case of students new to the Linux Operating System.

Furthermore, the researcher was able to develop procedural skill in approaching some Information Technology related tasks in the course of this thesis. In addition, prior to the commencement of this work, the researcher proficiency in web server installation, configuration was ordinary but has improved much more.