Enhancements: JavaScript

JavaScript is an easy-to-use scripting language based on an object-oriented programming philosophy. In other words, it's designed in easy-to-copy "chunks" of code. The code is written directly into the HTML page. It is a client-side scripting language, so you don't need any special software installed on your web server for the scripts to work.

Scripts are a set of directions to a computer. JavaScript and VBScript are two of the most common scripting languages in use today. A program such as a web browser translates the text script into computer commands.

Java and JavaScript are totally different languages.

Java is a compiled language developed by Sun. Java is written and then packaged into a self-executing file. To create an application with a compiled language, you typically need a special programming tool or development environment.

Originally developed by Netscape for server side scripting, JavaScript is an object-oriented scripting language. With JavaScript, you can write a script with a text editor (Notepad, SimpleText, etc.). A script is just plain ASCII text.

JavaScript is great for adding interactivity to your page. Although most browsers support JavaScript, some programmers avoid them because they can cause problems with some browsers. Rather than just using JavaScripts for fun, think about useful applications that really contribute to the quality of your page rather than silly uses that may interfere with page operation. For example, a rollover button is nice because users can see that their mouse is in the correct location. A question and answer button with a pop-up window is nice for practice tests.

Read Chapter 19: Scripts by Elizabeth Castro in HTML, XHTML, & CSS, Sixth Edition.

Read Chapter 20: A Taste of JavaScript by Elizabeth Castro in HTML, XHTML, & CSS, Sixth Edition.

This section of the website contains seven elements: Introduction, Transparent Javascripts with Dreamweaver, Basics, External Scripts, Repurposing Code, Cool Scripts, and Resources.

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