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Introduction to JavaScript

Judy Richardson

In this beginning-level course you will discover where JavaScript fits into the world of web development. Through hands-on exercises, you will use the Notepad++ text editor to embed JavaScript code to an existing HTML document. As you code a simple JavaScript program to provide user interaction you will learn to recognize and apply syntax rules and coding standards associated with JavaScript. The final activity in the course has you moving your JavaScript code into an external file so that you can compare inline and external JavaScript.

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In this beginning-level course you will discover where JavaScript fits into the world of web development. Through hands-on exercises, you will use the Notepad++ text editor to embed JavaScript code to an existing HTML document. As you code a simple JavaScript program to provide user interaction you will learn to recognize and apply syntax rules and coding standards associated with JavaScript. The final activity in the course has you moving your JavaScript code into an external file so that you can compare inline and external JavaScript.

Note: This course works best for learners who are based in the North America region. We’re currently working on providing the same experience in other regions.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores JavaScript's role in web development
Emphasizes practical exercises for JavaScript implementation
Teaches core JavaScript syntax and rules
Suitable for beginners with no prior JavaScript knowledge
Guides learners in using Notepad++ for JavaScript coding
May be restricted to learners in the North America region

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Reviews summary

Foundational javascript for absolute beginners

According to learners, this course is a highly effective starting point for anyone with no prior coding experience aiming to learn JavaScript for web development. Students praise the clear explanations and the hands-on exercises, which help solidify foundational concepts like syntax rules and embedding JavaScript in HTML. While many found the use of Notepad++ to be a simple and effective tool for learning basics, some more experienced learners noted it felt outdated. The course is consistently described as a solid introduction, though it may move too slowly for those with programming backgrounds. A few reviewers also highlighted potential regional setup challenges outside North America.
Perfectly tailored for learners with no prior programming experience.
"This course is absolutely fantastic for anyone starting with JavaScript. I had no prior coding experience..."
"Perfect for truly starting from scratch. I felt empowered to write simple scripts by the end."
"As someone totally new to coding, this course was a lifesaver. It breaks down JavaScript concepts into manageable pieces."
Practical coding activities reinforce core concepts effectively.
"The hands-on labs really solidify the concepts. I had no prior coding experience, and I now feel confident to write basic scripts for web pages."
"Excellent course for a total beginner! The focus on hands-on coding was perfect for learning."
"The activities were very helpful for understanding. I can now understand how to make my web pages interactive."
Instructor offers understandable, concise explanations.
"The instructor explains everything so clearly, and the hands-on labs really solidify the concepts."
"The instructor's explanations were concise and easy to follow. Highly recommend for a first step into web scripting."
"The explanations of syntax rules and coding standards were very clear. The hands-on examples really helped me grasp the concepts."
Users outside North America may face environment setup challenges.
"Disappointed with the regional restriction. The note about North America isn't clear until you're already into it."
"I'm based in Europe, and setting up the environment was a hassle. It needs an update on tools."
"I found the setup challenging as the course works best for learners who are based in the North America region."
Pace may be too slow for those with prior programming knowledge.
"If you have any prior programming experience, even in another language, you might find it moves too slowly."
"It's an okay course, very basic... too simplistic if you're not a complete novice."
"The course is quite short and very superficial. Good for literally 0 experience, but others will quickly outgrow it."
Uses Notepad++, which some learners find simplistic or outdated.
"My only minor gripe is that it uses Notepad++, which felt a bit outdated for current web development practices."
"The use of Notepad++ is a bit frustrating if you're used to more modern IDEs."
"Notepad++ is definitely a drawback. It does cover the absolute basics, but don't expect to be a JavaScript pro after this."

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 Introduction to JavaScript with these activities:
Review HTML and CSS Fundamentals
Ensures a strong foundation in HTML and CSS, which are essential for JavaScript development.
Browse courses on HTML
Show steps
  • Go over your notes or online resources on HTML and CSS.
  • Complete a few practice exercises to refresh your memory.
JavaScript Resource Compilation
Creates a personalized repository of useful JavaScript resources for future reference.
Show steps
  • Gather online resources, tutorials, and documentation related to JavaScript.
  • Organize the resources into a structured format (e.g., folders, bookmarks).
Learn Java Concepts via 'Head First Java'
Provides a solid grasp on the foundational concepts of Java and prepares you for later sections of the course.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read through the first 3 chapters to understand core concepts.
  • Go over the examples in the book to solidify your understanding of the material.
  • Create a simple Java program to practice applying the concepts you've learned.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
JavaScript Exercises on W3Schools
Provides a structured environment to practice JavaScript and reinforce your learning.
Browse courses on Coding Exercises
Show steps
  • Go through the JavaScript exercises provided on W3Schools.
  • Attempt the exercises to test your understanding.
  • Review the solutions to identify areas for improvement.
JavaScript Tutorial Video
Reinforces your understanding of JavaScript concepts through visual and auditory learning.
Browse courses on JavaScript Fundamentals
Show steps
  • Outline the key concepts you want to cover.
  • Record yourself explaining the concepts clearly and concisely.
  • Edit the video to make it engaging and informative.
  • Share your video with others to get feedback.
Interactive JavaScript Calculator
Builds your practical skills in applying JavaScript for creating interactive elements.
Show steps
  • Design the layout and functionality of the calculator.
  • Implement the basic arithmetic operations using JavaScript.
  • Add user input handling and display the results.
  • Incorporate error handling to make the calculator more robust.
LeetCode JavaScript Problems
Develops your problem-solving and algorithmic thinking skills in JavaScript.
Show steps
  • Select a set of JavaScript problems from LeetCode.
  • Solve the problems using JavaScript.
  • Compare your solutions with others to learn alternative approaches.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to JavaScript will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Front-End Developer
A Front-End Developer is responsible for the look and feel of a website or application. They use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create interactive and visually appealing experiences for users. This course provides a solid foundation in JavaScript, which is an essential skill for Front-End Developers. The course teaches JavaScript syntax, coding standards, and user interaction, which are all essential for creating effective and engaging web pages.
See salaries and explore the career path for Front-End Developer
Web Developer
A Web Developer is responsible for creating and maintaining websites. They use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create interactive and visually appealing experiences for users. This course provides a solid foundation in JavaScript, which is an essential skill for Web Developers. The course teaches JavaScript syntax, coding standards, and user interaction, which are all essential for creating effective and engaging web pages.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer
Full-Stack Developer
A Full-Stack Developer is responsible for both the front-end and back-end of a website or application. They use a variety of programming languages, including JavaScript, HTML, CSS, Python, and Java, to create and maintain complex web applications. This course provides a solid foundation in JavaScript, which is essential for both Front-End and Back-End Development. The course teaches JavaScript syntax, coding standards, and user interaction, which are all essential for creating effective and engaging web applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Full-Stack Developer
Back-End Developer
A Back-End Developer works on the server-side of a website or application. They use programming languages such as JavaScript, Python, and Java to build and maintain databases, process data, and create application logic. This course provides a basic understanding of JavaScript, which is commonly used for Back-End Development. The course teaches JavaScript syntax, coding standards, and user interaction, which are all essential for creating efficient and scalable web applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Back-End Developer
Computer Programmer
A Computer Programmer is responsible for writing and maintaining code for software applications. They work with stakeholders to identify software needs, develop software solutions, and test software performance. This course may be useful for Computer Programmers who want to learn more about the technical aspects of web development, as JavaScript is a commonly used programming language for building web applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer
Software Engineer
A Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software systems. They use a variety of programming languages, including JavaScript, Python, and Java, to create and maintain complex software applications. This course provides a basic understanding of JavaScript, which is commonly used for software development. The course teaches JavaScript syntax, coding standards, and user interaction, which are all essential for creating efficient and scalable software applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
UI Designer
A UI Designer is responsible for designing the user interface of a website or application. They use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create intuitive and visually appealing user experiences. This course provides a basic understanding of JavaScript, which is commonly used for UI design. The course teaches JavaScript syntax, coding standards, and user interaction, which are all essential for creating effective and engaging user interfaces.
See salaries and explore the career path for UI Designer
UX Designer
A UX Designer is responsible for the overall user experience of a website or application. They work with UI Designers to create intuitive and visually appealing user interfaces, and they also conduct usability testing to ensure that users have a positive experience. This course provides a basic understanding of JavaScript, which is commonly used for UX design. The course teaches JavaScript syntax, coding standards, and user interaction, which are all essential for creating effective and engaging user experiences.
See salaries and explore the career path for UX Designer
Software Developer
A Software Developer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software systems. They work with stakeholders to identify software needs, develop software solutions, and test software performance. This course may be useful for Software Developers who want to learn more about the technical aspects of web development, as JavaScript is a commonly used programming language for building web applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer
Business Analyst
A Business Analyst is responsible for understanding the needs of businesses and developing solutions to meet those needs. They work with stakeholders to gather requirements, analyze data, and develop business processes. This course may be useful for Business Analysts who want to learn more about the technical aspects of web development, as JavaScript is a commonly used programming language for building web applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. They work with stakeholders to identify data needs, develop data models, and create data visualizations. This course may be useful for Data Analysts who want to learn more about the technical aspects of web development, as JavaScript is a commonly used programming language for building web applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Machine Learning Engineer
A Machine Learning Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and deploying machine learning models. They work with stakeholders to identify machine learning needs, develop machine learning models, and evaluate machine learning performance. This course may be useful for Machine Learning Engineers who want to learn more about the technical aspects of web development, as JavaScript is a commonly used programming language for building web applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist is responsible for using data to solve business problems. They work with stakeholders to identify data needs, develop data models, and create data visualizations. This course may be useful for Data Scientists who want to learn more about the technical aspects of web development, as JavaScript is a commonly used programming language for building web applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Product Manager
A Product Manager is responsible for the development and launch of new products. They work with engineers, designers, and marketers to create products that meet the needs of users. This course may be useful for Product Managers who want to learn more about the technical aspects of web development, as JavaScript is a commonly used programming language for building web applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
Project Manager
A Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and delivering projects. They work with stakeholders to define project goals, develop project plans, and manage project risks. This course may be useful for Project Managers who want to learn more about the technical aspects of web development, as JavaScript is a commonly used programming language for building web applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Reading list

We've selected seven 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 Introduction to JavaScript.
Cover image
How JavaScript Works
Save
Will help you learn the essential parts of JavaScript, and how to write clean and maintainable code.
How JavaScript Works
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Quick JavaScript
Save
Comprehensive reference guide to JavaScript, covering a wide range of topics from the basics to advanced concepts.
Quick JavaScript (Quick Programming)
Paperback
$$
Quick JavaScript (Quick Programming)
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Head First Design Patterns
Save
Will help you learn JavaScript in a fun and engaging way, using a visual and interactive approach.
Head First Design Patterns: Building Extensible and...
Paperback
$$
Head First Design Patterns: Building Extensible and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
JavaScript for Impatient Programmers
Save
Will help you learn JavaScript quickly and efficiently, by focusing on the essential concepts.
JavaScript for impatient programmers
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Object-Oriented JavaScript
Save
Will help you learn how to use design patterns to write reusable and maintainable JavaScript code.
Object-Oriented JavaScript - Third Edition: Learn...
Paperback
$$
Javascript: Object Oriented Programming
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Learning JavaScript Design Patterns
Save
Will help you learn how to use design patterns to write reusable and maintainable JavaScript code.
Learning JavaScript Design Patterns: A JavaScript...
Paperback
$$
Learning JavaScript Design Patterns
Paperback
$$
(中文) JavaScript设计模式（异步图书） (Chinese Edition)
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Node.js in Action
Save
Will help you learn how to use Node.js, a popular JavaScript runtime environment for building server-side applications.
Node.js in Action
Paperback
$$

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Effort
1 hour and 45 minutes
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Coursera Project Network
Instructor
Judy Richardson
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores JavaScript's role in web development
Emphasizes practical exercises for JavaScript implementation
Teaches core JavaScript syntax and rules
Suitable for beginners with no prior JavaScript knowledge
Guides learners in using Notepad++ for JavaScript coding
May be restricted to learners in the North America region
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