JavaScript Invented 1995 Steve, Tony & Sharon

A Scripting Language (A scripting language is a lightweight programming language that supports the writing of scripts). JavaScript was designed to add interactivity to HTML pages. Is programming code that can be inserted into HTML pages to be executed by web browsers. Client-side scripting.

Are JavaScript and Java the same? No Java is a complex OOP language. JavaScript is an OOP scripting language. What do I need to run JavaScript? JavaScript support is built into all the major web browsers. Make sure it is enabled. Do I need to learn JavaScript to be able to use It? It helps.. but No! All you need to know is how to paste code into the required places in your web page.

Can I Use HTML Instead of JavaScript? No. HTML is a mark-up language designed for defining static web page content. JavaScript is a scripting language designed for performing dynamic tasks. It is used within HTML pages to add dynamic content. What is Client side scripting anyway? the user requests a Web page from the server. the server finds the page and sends it to the user. the page is displayed on the browser with any scripts running during or after display.

So why is this useful? client-side scripting is used to make Web pages change after they arrive at the browser. It is useful for making pages more interesting and user- friendly. It can also provide useful gadgets such as calculators, clocks etc. but on the whole is used for appearance and interaction. Client-side scripts rely on the user's computer. If that computer is slow they may run slowly. They may not run at all if the browser does not understand the scripting language.

A preview of the JavaScript Syntax

Example of the syntax Test running a script var string1 = "Hello"; var string2 = "Goodbye"; alert(string1); alert(string2); string2 = string1; alert(string1); Declaring variables in JavaScript

Which looks like this in a browser Step 1 of the syntax ‘Hello’ – click on ‘Ok’ produces the next alert ‘Goodbye’.

Simple form script Firstname: Lastname:

A little more complex

It can even render drawings in a browser

The possibilities are endless JavaScript as a language is constantly under development. New features and libraries are being written all the time. It works really well with Html5 the new web standard. The interactivity created using it does not need any additional server technology as the client machine is responsible for running the script.

Conclusion Javascript is an easy to use programming language that can be embedded in the header of web pages. Coupled with HTML5 and CSS allows you to add a lot of power and interactivity to your web pages and applications.

It can enhance the dynamics and interactive features of your page by allowing you: To perform calculations Check forms Write interactive games Add special effects Customize graphics Create passwords.

Uses in Schools Javascript is not taught as a seperate topic but is incorporated when pupils are designing their own web page to make them more interactive. Here is a link to test pupils knowledge of JavaScript (or your knowledge too!!) est.asp?qtest=JavaScript

Thank you for listening Are there any questions?