Even students familiar with much of this material will profit from the earlier sections, where ideas are often seen from a fresh perspective not presented in other courses or books. Furthermore, the background developed there is essential to a proper understanding of the more complex analyses in later sections.

The course requires a modern version of a major browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape. Early versions of those browsers may not support technical functions used by the course. Students determine their own pace and the length of each session.