best resource to learn to make dynamic websites

[adamgram]

Hello all,

I am interested in learning more about web design from the ground up. I know how to make a static website but I want to learn to make dynamic sites as well. Specifically I want to know how to set up a database that people can add to through my website and also search through what other people have posted based on defined criteria (multiple choice questions and distance from zip code).

I started googling around and from what I've gathered thus far what I need to learn is how to use PHP. I have Kompozer (linux web editor) for the pages and Bluefish for PHP, which I'm going to start learning next, but what I also think I need is general information on how dynamic websites are built, how they work, and so on.

I've found a ton of stuff online so far but I'm interested in hearing some other people's opinions on what the best course of action would be to acquire the knowledge needed to go from static to dynamic web design. I wouldn't mind investing some money into my education on the subject in terms of a good book or online course, but I am skeptical of the latter unless I heard a lot of great responses about a course in particular. For what I want to do with it, it would not be worth the investment in a formal education. I am mainly interested in helpful websites, forums, books, tutorials, etc that those who know this stuff already use or used when they were learning it.

Thanks! Sorry this was so long...

[gkumar]

This series is hosted by Janine Warner, best-selling author of Dreamweaver For Dummies, which has sold more than 200,000 copies and is in its sixth edition. During the over 10-hour video series produced in HD, Janine shares her extensive knowledge of the industry-leading web design tool. In "Chapter 10: Building a Dynamic Website: Getting Started," you will learn about:

* Introducing database websites
* Installing Internet Information Services (IIS)
* Installing a testing server
* Setting up a data source name (DSN)
* Selecting security options
* Preparing to create a dynamic website
* Creating an ASP JavaScript page
Requirements:-To complete this tutorial you will need to install the following software and files:
Dreamweaver 8
Microsoft Windows
Sample files:-Note: Project files are available with purchase of the full training series from Total Training. However, you can use the following empty Microsoft Access database in the lessons.