The term "Progressive Enhancements" was new to me, so even though I only needed to check one site, I actually checked out a number of them to try to get a good overview of the subject. The sites I visited (links provided) are
" Progressive Enhancements " is a method which uses 3 layers to help web developers build sites which provide a good viewing experience for multiple users. As there is no way to know what browsers or how dated the browsers are that site visitors may be using, the aim is to create websites which are accessible (the importance of accessibility was discussed in week 1 of class) on all devices as some newer features may not show up on older browsers. The concepts presented to accomplish this include using basic content and functionality first, then build upon that robust base with CSS and Javascript.
The idea behind this is to focus on the essentials which should work on all browsers. Other less essential features can be added progressively to further the user's experience (hence the term "Progressive Enhancements").
I used the W3C Markup Validation Service and entered the URL for Smashing Magazine.The validator brought up 34 errors. There was a link on the site to an "Accessibility" page which I also entered into the validator. That brought up 22 errors for that page. The site was not difficult to navigate although the style of the home page was a little too dark for me. I found their sample html codes, although color coded, more difficult to read.
In conclusion, I found reading through all the information on these sites helpful. As a beginner, it is easy to lose sight of the best way to present information to a varied audience. It was a good reminder to myself to KISS as I am guilty of using something that I think is fun, just because I can!