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Quintin Cutts and Jeremy Singer

This is the first course in a sequence of four courses that develops essential 21st century computational thinking (CT) skills using the popular JavaScript language as a vehicle.

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This is the first course in a sequence of four courses that develops essential 21st century computational thinking (CT) skills using the popular JavaScript language as a vehicle.

At the end of this first course you will: know a framework for CT to help you learn about it and work with others; be developing your CT skills so that you can more easily work with digital technology of all kinds; be able to read and write programs in JavaScript that involve drawing and animation, using a specialised library; and post your creations on the web so that others can appreciate your skills.

This course is suitable for: complete beginners; those who have taken an introductory course in any programming language and want to learn more deeply about the thinking and learning skills they are starting to develop; those who wish to learn Javascript in a supportive environment.

The follow-on courses explore the manipulation and analysis of data, such an important aspect of our lives now, again in a highly supportive environment, and then we move the context to mainstream web--based platforms so that you can use these skills more widely.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introductions - and starting out with CT using graphics in JavaScript
This module introduces the instructors for this course and for the longer Computational Thinking with Javascript specialisation. A framework for understanding computational thinking is introduced and first steps are taken with Javascript, applying it in the context of simple graphics - drawing and animation.
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Solving problems / programming a task
In this module, you take the foundations you have learned about computational thinking, some early programming constructs, and your program reading skills, and you start to learn about writing programs for tasks.
More complex drawings, and how to handle their descriptions
As our drawings become more complex, their descriptions will quickly become unwieldy. To counter this, we introduce programming language constructs that allow highly complex drawings to be described in just a few lines. They're a bit harder to understand at first, but in the long term, they're essential.
Animations - and consolidating what we've learned so far
Drawing still pictures is one thing - but the process-oriented element of programming lends itself to animation - an activity taking place over time. In this module, we'll make use of all we've learned so far to create animations. Functions will be used in a new and important way - as a so-called "callback" - which form the foundation of interactive programming as we'll see in Course 3 of the specialisation.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides a framework for understanding computational thinking, helping learners grasp the concept and collaborate with others
Develops computational thinking skills, equipping learners to work more effortlessly with various digital technologies
Employs a specialized library for drawing and animation in JavaScript, providing a structured environment for learning
Enables learners to share their creations online, showcasing their acquired skills and fostering a sense of community
Offers a supportive environment for learning JavaScript, making it accessible to both beginners and those seeking to enhance their understanding
Incorporates hands-on activities and interactive materials, providing practical experience and reinforcing learning

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Computational Thinking with Javascript 1: Draw & Animate with these activities:
Review JavaScript syntax and programming fundamentals
Refresh your knowledge of JavaScript syntax and programming fundamentals to strengthen your foundation for this course.
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  • Review online tutorials or documentation on JavaScript basics.
  • Complete short coding exercises to practice writing JavaScript code.
Organize and summarize course materials
Improve your retention and understanding by organizing and summarizing lecture notes, assignments, and other course materials.
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  • Review and consolidate your notes from each module.
  • Create summaries or concept maps to connect different topics.
  • Organize your materials into a structured format for easy reference.
Solve problems and write JavaScript code
Reinforce your understanding of computational thinking concepts and practice your JavaScript coding skills to improve your programming proficiency.
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  • Review module materials on problem-solving and JavaScript syntax.
  • Attempt practice problems provided at the end of each module.
  • Write JavaScript code to implement the solutions to the practice problems.
  • Test your code and debug any errors.
Five other activities
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Participate in online discussions and forums
Engage with fellow learners to discuss course concepts, ask questions, and share insights.
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  • Read through forum posts and discussion threads related to module topics.
  • Post your own questions, comments, or responses to contribute to the discussions.
  • Collaborate with peers to solve problems or provide support.
Create JavaScript animations
Demonstrate your understanding of JavaScript animation concepts by creating your own interactive animations.
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  • Plan your animation, including the objects involved and their movements.
  • Write JavaScript code to create the objects and define their initial positions.
  • Use JavaScript functions to animate the objects according to your plan.
  • Preview your animation and make adjustments as needed.
Explore additional JavaScript resources and tutorials
Supplement your learning by exploring external resources and tutorials that provide further explanations and examples.
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  • Search for online tutorials or articles on specific JavaScript topics.
  • Follow along with tutorials to learn new concepts or techniques.
  • Experiment with code examples to reinforce your understanding.
Attend virtual or in-person JavaScript workshops
Enhance your learning through interactive workshops that provide hands-on experience and opportunities to connect with experts.
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  • Research and identify relevant JavaScript workshops.
  • Register and participate in the workshops.
  • Engage with instructors, ask questions, and learn from others.
Contribute to open-source JavaScript projects
Apply your JavaScript skills and contribute to real-world projects while collaborating with others.
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  • Identify open-source JavaScript projects that align with your interests.
  • Review the project documentation and codebase.
  • Propose and implement improvements or new features.

Career center

Learners who complete Computational Thinking with Javascript 1: Draw & Animate will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
JavaScript Developer
This course in Javascript can help you get a job as a Javascript Developer, or advance within your career field. Javascript is a computer coding language with which you might already be somewhat familiar. But this course will help you build a foundation in the language. You will be able to read and write programs in Javascript that use drawing and animation. For some roles, you may be able to land a job with just this certification. In other cases, you may wish to pair this with a bachelor's degree in a software- or web-development related field.
Design Engineer
To be successful as a Design Engineer, you likely already have a bachelor's degree in a field like mechanical engineering. This course may be helpful to you, as it will teach you how to read and write programs in Javascript that use drawing and animation. This can be helpful in a variety of roles, especially those that involve the design of visual or interactive experiences.
Web Developer
A Web Developer will likely need a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as computer science or web development. This course may be helpful as it will teach you to read and write programs in Javascript that use drawing and animation. However, you should pair this with other coursework or training that covers broader web development skills like HTML and CSS.
Software Developer
For a Software Developer, a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as computer science or software development, is typically required. This course can be an excellent addition to your background, as it will introduce you to the Javascript programming language. You will learn to read and write programs in Javascript that use drawing and animation, which can be particularly helpful for certain kinds of software.
Graphic designer
Many Graphic Designers have a bachelor's degree in graphic design or a related field, and this is likely the best way to break into the field. However, this course can be helpful as it will teach you how to use Javascript to create visual and interactive experiences. This could open new doors for you as a Graphic Designer, particularly if you are interested in working in the digital sector.
Animator
This course may be a good option for you if you are an Animator who wants to incorporate coding into your work. You will learn how to use Javascript to create animations, which can be useful in a variety of fields, including entertainment, marketing, and advertising.
Computer Scientist
To be successful as a Computer Scientist, you will typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science or a closely related field, and in most cases, a master's degree is also required. Still, this course may be helpful to you, as it will help you build a foundation in Javascript, a popular coding language. Moreover, this course will give you exposure to computational thinking, which is a valuable skill for those pursuing advanced degrees in computer science.
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist typically needs a master's degree or a PhD, usually in a quantitative field such as statistics, mathematics, or computer science. Still, this course may be of some benefit to you. It will provide you with a basic understanding of Javascript, which can be helpful for data analysis and visualization.
Data Analyst
This course could provide you with some valuable skills to complement your work as a Data Analyst. You will learn how to read and write programs in Javascript that use drawing and animation. While not directly related to data analysis, this can provide you with experience that could be useful for visualization and presentation.
Software Engineer
This course can be a valuable addition to your education as a Software Engineer, supplementing a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Javascript is a key language for web development and this course will help you learn to read and write programs in Javascript that use drawing and animation. This can be particularly helpful for those interested in working with interactive or visual software applications.
Multimedia Artist
As a Multimedia Artist, this course may help you expand your skillset and work with new kinds of creative projects. You will learn how to use Javascript to create animations and other interactive experiences, which can be used in a variety of contexts, including advertising and entertainment.
Web Designer
To be successful as a Web Designer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in web design, graphic design, or a related field. This course will not provide you with enough training to enter this field on its own. However, it may be a valuable addition to your studies, as it will introduce you to Javascript and provide you with experience reading and writing Javascript programs that use drawing and animation.
Information Architect
Information Architects typically need a bachelor's degree in information architecture, library science, or a related field. This course could complement your existing skills, as it will teach you how to read and write programs in Javascript that use drawing and animation. This knowledge may be useful for building interactive navigation systems or other visual interfaces.
Interaction Designer
Interactive Designers usually have a bachelor's degree in interaction design, human-computer interaction, or a similar field. This course can be a useful supplement to your learning, as it will teach you how to read and write programs in Javascript that use drawing and animation. This can be helpful for prototyping and testing interactive designs.
User Experience (UX) Designer
UX Designers typically hold a bachelor's degree in UX design, human-computer interaction, or a related field. As a UX Designer, you may find this course useful, as it will teach you how to use Javascript to create interactive experiences. This can be helpful for prototyping and testing UX designs.

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Computational Thinking with Javascript 1: Draw & Animate.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to JavaScript, covering the basics of the language as well as more advanced topics such as object-oriented programming and functional programming. It valuable resource for both beginners and experienced JavaScript developers.
Classic guide to JavaScript, written by one of the most influential JavaScript developers. It provides a deep understanding of the language's core concepts and best practices.
Fun and engaging introduction to JavaScript, using a visual and interactive approach. It great choice for beginners who want to learn JavaScript in a hands-on way.
Classic guide to computer science and algorithms. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about the foundations of programming.
Comprehensive introduction to algorithms and data structures. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about the theoretical foundations of computer science.
Provides a comprehensive overview of data structures and algorithms in JavaScript. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to learn more about the practical applications of computer science.
Comprehensive reference guide to JavaScript. It valuable resource for experienced JavaScript developers who want to learn more about the language's features and capabilities.
Fast-paced introduction to JavaScript for experienced programmers. It great choice for developers who want to learn JavaScript quickly and efficiently.
Provides a hands-on introduction to creative coding. It great choice for people who want to learn how to use code to create art and design.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the use of code to simulate natural phenomena. It valuable resource for people who want to learn how to use code to create interactive and generative art.
Provides a practical guide to generative art using Processing. It valuable resource for people who want to learn how to use code to create beautiful and complex images.
Comprehensive guide to JavaScript for web developers. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of the language to advanced techniques such as object-oriented programming and functional programming.
Simple and easy-to-understand introduction to JavaScript. It great choice for people who want to learn JavaScript without getting bogged down in technical details.

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