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Colleen van Lent, Ph.D.
and
Charles Russell Severance
If you want to take your website to the next level, the ability to incorporate interactivity is a must. But adding some of these types of capabilities requires a stronger programming language than HTML5 or CSS3, and JavaScript can provide just what you need. With just a basic understanding of the language, you can create a page that will react to common events such as page loads, mouse clicks & movements, and even keyboard input.
Read more
If you want to take your website to the next level, the ability to incorporate interactivity is a must. But adding some of these types of capabilities requires a stronger programming language than HTML5 or CSS3, and JavaScript can provide just what you need. With just a basic understanding of the language, you can create a page that will react to common events such as page loads, mouse clicks & movements, and even keyboard input.
Read more
If you want to take your website to the next level, the ability to incorporate interactivity is a must. But adding some of these types of capabilities requires a stronger programming language than HTML5 or CSS3, and JavaScript can provide just what you need. With just a basic understanding of the language, you can create a page that will react to common events such as page loads, mouse clicks & movements, and even keyboard input.
This course will introduce you to the basics of the JavaScript language. We will cover concepts such as variables, looping, functions, and even a little bit about debugging tools. You will understand how the Document Object Model (DOM) is used by JavaScript to identify and modify specific parts of your page. After the course, learners will be able to react to DOM Events and dynamically alter the contents and style of their page. The class will culminate in a final project - the creation of an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
This can be completed as the third or fourth course in the Web Design For Everybody specialization.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/hl7ne0/interactivity
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What's inside
Syllabus
Week One: Data Types
If you haven't use a traditional programming language before, this first week is key. Before we begin with the how, we will talk about the why, mainly why we want to use JavaScript. The main reason is that it is very easy for JavaScript to work with the DOM. And easy is always a great way to start. Speaking of starting out, it is also always more fun when our code actually does something we can see, so we will jump quickly into different ways we can generate output. It won't be flashy yet, but it will be a great way to get your feet wet with traditional programming. After that we go back to the basics of how a computer uses data. We begin with variables, expressions, and operators.
Read more
Syllabus
Week One: Data Types
If you haven't use a traditional programming language before, this first week is key. Before we begin with the how, we will talk about the why, mainly why we want to use JavaScript. The main reason is that it is very easy for JavaScript to work with the DOM. And easy is always a great way to start. Speaking of starting out, it is also always more fun when our code actually does something we can see, so we will jump quickly into different ways we can generate output. It won't be flashy yet, but it will be a great way to get your feet wet with traditional programming. After that we go back to the basics of how a computer uses data. We begin with variables, expressions, and operators.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Introduces JavaScript, which is very useful to work with the DOM
Teaches how JavaScript can react to mouse clicks, movements, and keyboard input
Provides a foundation in programming by covering variables, expressions, and operators
Develops core programming skills through hands-on practice
Designed for learners with a basic understanding of HTML5 and CSS3
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Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary
Practical javascript for web interactivity
According to learners, this course provides a fantastic introduction to JavaScript, especially for those with no prior programming experience looking to add interactivity to websites. Students frequently praise the clear explanations from the teaching team and the highly practical hands-on projects, such as building an interactive form and photo gallery. While it's considered an excellent starting point, some reviewers noted that it stays focused on basics and might be too simple for learners with existing JavaScript knowledge. Opinions on the assignment difficulty and clarity vary among students.
Assumes basic HTML/CSS knowledge.
"I had some basic HTML/CSS but no JS experience and this was a perfect start."
"Assumes you know HTML and CSS. If you don't, take those first."
"Requires basic understanding of HTML and CSS to follow along effectively."
"Builds well on the previous courses in the specialization (HTML/CSS)."
Hands-on projects solidify understanding.
"The assignments built upon each other nicely. The final project on the interactive form was very practical."
"The hands-on projects were the best part. They really helped solidify the concepts."
"The assignments provided were very useful and the content in general was explained effectively."
"The assignments/projects in the course were a great way to learn and apply the content."
"Loved the practical assignments and the clear explanations."
Instructor breaks down concepts effectively.
"The instructor and the team explain the concepts extremely well."
"Lectures are clear and well-explained. Great intro to JS."
"The lectures were clear and easy to understand."
"The explanation is very clear."
"The instructor explains things clearly and is responsive in the forums."
"The instructor is so knowledgeable and clear in his explanations!"
Ideal for those new to programming.
"Excellent course for beginners. I had some basic HTML/CSS but no JS experience and this was a perfect start."
"Fantastic course! As a total beginner, I found the explanations easy to follow."
"Highly recommend this for true beginners. Started with zero programming knowledge and was able to complete the assignments."
"This course is perfect for beginners with no prior knowledge of JS."
"Excellent course for someone with no prior programming knowledge. I really loved the pace."
"This is my first time learning JavaScript and this course is simple, easy and well explained."
Opinions vary on task difficulty/clarity.
"Some assignments were challenging, but valuable."
"The assignments were quite frustrating and time-consuming, although the video content was good."
"Graded assignments often felt like they weren't explained well or the auto-grader was flawed."
"Assignment instructions were unclear at times, but forum help was great."
"The assignments were tricky but helped reinforce learning effectively."
Stays at a foundational level.
"Okay course. Covered the basics but didn't go into much depth. If you already know some JS, this will be too simple."
"Not enough depth on advanced topics, but good for a general intro."
"If you already know some JS, this course will be too simple."
"Basic concepts... felt a bit dated compared to modern JS frameworks."
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 Interactivity with JavaScript with these
activities:
Review JavaScript Basics
Show steps
To help make the course material easier to understand it will be helpful to refresh yourself on the basics of JavaScript.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
-
Go over the basics of JavaScript syntax
-
Review the different data types in JavaScript
-
Practice writing simple JavaScript functions
Review DOM Manipulation
Show steps
Reviewing DOM manipulation techniques will help you better understand how JavaScript interacts with the page.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
-
Go over the basics of the DOM
-
Practice selecting and modifying elements in the DOM
-
Review event handling in JavaScript
Attend JavaScript Meetups
Show steps
Attending meetups will allow you to connect with other JavaScript developers, learn about new technologies, and share your knowledge.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
-
Find local JavaScript meetups
-
Attend meetups regularly
-
Network with other developers
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Interactive Coding Tutorials
Show steps
Following along with some of these guided tutorials will help you practice concepts introduced in the course while creating a working interactive webpage.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
-
Choose a beginner friendly Javascript video tutorial
-
Follow the tutorial and make sure to practice the examples
-
Complete the tutorial and present your work to the group
JavaScript Resource Compilation
Show steps
By creating a compilation of online resources you will be able to quickly reference the best tutorials, articles, and documentation when needed.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
-
Find and collect useful JavaScript resources
-
Organize the resources into different categories
-
Share the compilation with others
JavaScript Coding Practice
Show steps
Solving JavaScript coding problems regularly will increase your problem solving skills and help you become more efficient at coding.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
-
Select a JavaScript practice website or textbook
-
Work on solving different types of Javascript problems
-
Review solutions and understand the different ways to approach a problem
Interactive JavaScript Project
Show steps
Building an interactive project will give you hands-on experience with the concepts taught in the course and will push you to apply your knowledge in a practical setting.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
-
Brainstorm an interactive webpage idea
-
Design and plan the layout of the page
-
Write the JavaScript code to make it interactive
-
Test and debug the code
-
Deploy the webpage and share it with others
Mentor Junior Developers
Show steps
Mentoring others will help solidify your knowledge, develop soft skills, and contribute to the community.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
-
Volunteer as a mentor on a coding platform
-
Answer questions in forums and discussion boards
-
Lead study groups and workshops
Review JavaScript Basics
Show steps
To help make the course material easier to understand it will be helpful to refresh yourself on the basics of JavaScript.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Go over the basics of JavaScript syntax
- Review the different data types in JavaScript
- Practice writing simple JavaScript functions
Review DOM Manipulation
Show steps
Reviewing DOM manipulation techniques will help you better understand how JavaScript interacts with the page.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Go over the basics of the DOM
- Practice selecting and modifying elements in the DOM
- Review event handling in JavaScript
Attend JavaScript Meetups
Show steps
Attending meetups will allow you to connect with other JavaScript developers, learn about new technologies, and share your knowledge.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find local JavaScript meetups
- Attend meetups regularly
- Network with other developers
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Interactive Coding Tutorials
Show steps
Following along with some of these guided tutorials will help you practice concepts introduced in the course while creating a working interactive webpage.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a beginner friendly Javascript video tutorial
- Follow the tutorial and make sure to practice the examples
- Complete the tutorial and present your work to the group
JavaScript Resource Compilation
Show steps
By creating a compilation of online resources you will be able to quickly reference the best tutorials, articles, and documentation when needed.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find and collect useful JavaScript resources
- Organize the resources into different categories
- Share the compilation with others
JavaScript Coding Practice
Show steps
Solving JavaScript coding problems regularly will increase your problem solving skills and help you become more efficient at coding.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a JavaScript practice website or textbook
- Work on solving different types of Javascript problems
- Review solutions and understand the different ways to approach a problem
Interactive JavaScript Project
Show steps
Building an interactive project will give you hands-on experience with the concepts taught in the course and will push you to apply your knowledge in a practical setting.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Brainstorm an interactive webpage idea
- Design and plan the layout of the page
- Write the JavaScript code to make it interactive
- Test and debug the code
- Deploy the webpage and share it with others
Mentor Junior Developers
Show steps
Mentoring others will help solidify your knowledge, develop soft skills, and contribute to the community.
Browse courses on
JavaScript
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Volunteer as a mentor on a coding platform
- Answer questions in forums and discussion boards
- Lead study groups and workshops
Career center
Learners who complete Interactivity with JavaScript will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Web Developer
Web Developer
Web Developers have the technical ability to design and build websites, and they are in high demand. With JavaScript being the programming language of the web, this course will help you build a foundation JavaScript. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
Front-End Developer
Front-End Developer
Front-End Developers are responsible for the design and implementation of the user interface of a website. This course will help you build a foundation in JavaScript, which is the programming language of the web. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
Full-Stack Developer
Full-Stack Developer
Full-Stack Developers are responsible for both the front-end and back-end development of a website. This course will help you build a foundation in JavaScript, which is the programming language of the web. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. This course will help you build a foundation in JavaScript, which is one of the most popular programming languages in the world. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use data to solve problems and make predictions. JavaScript is a popular programming language for data science, and this course will help you build a foundation in the language. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
UX Designer
UX Designer
UX Designers are responsible for the user experience of a website or app. This course will help you build a foundation in JavaScript, which is the programming language of the web. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
Web Analyst
Web Analyst
Web Analysts collect and analyze data to improve the performance of websites. JavaScript is a popular programming language for web analytics, and this course will help you build a foundation in the language. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
Information Architect
Information Architect
Information Architects design and organize the content on a website or app. JavaScript is a popular programming language for information architecture, and this course will help you build a foundation in the language. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
Project Manager
Project Manager
Project Managers plan and execute projects. JavaScript is a popular programming language for project management, and this course will help you build a foundation in the language. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create documentation for software and other technical products. JavaScript is a popular programming language for technical writing, and this course will help you build a foundation in the language. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
Quality Assurance Analyst
Quality Assurance Analyst
Quality Assurance Analysts test software to ensure that it meets requirements. JavaScript is a popular programming language for quality assurance, and this course will help you build a foundation in the language. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts analyze business processes and identify opportunities for improvement. JavaScript is a popular programming language for business analysis, and this course will help you build a foundation in the language. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
Systems Analyst
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts design and implement computer systems. JavaScript is a popular programming language for systems analysis, and this course will help you build a foundation in the language. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
Database Administrator
Database Administrator
Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. JavaScript is a popular programming language for database administration, and this course will help you build a foundation in the language. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
Network Administrator
Network Administrator
Network Administrators manage and maintain computer networks. JavaScript is a popular programming language for network administration, and this course will help you build a foundation in the language. You will learn the basics of the language, such as data types, variables, and loops, as well as how to use the Document Object Model (DOM) to identify and modify specific parts of your page. This course also includes a final project where you will create an interactive HTML5 form that accepts and verifies input.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/hl7ne0/interactivity
Reading list
We've selected 30 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
Interactivity with JavaScript.
Save
Comprehensive guide to JavaScript, covering everything from the basics to advanced topics. It's an excellent resource for both beginners and experienced JavaScript developers, and it's written in a clear and concise style.
More comprehensive introduction to JavaScript. It covers more advanced topics, such as closures, prototypes, and asynchronous programming. It also includes a number of challenges and exercises.
Is an excellent reference for JavaScript developers of all levels, regardless of their experience. It focuses on the core principles of JavaScript, and it provides detailed explanations of how different parts of the language work.
Provides a deep dive into the fundamentals of JavaScript, focusing on the language's core concepts and underlying mechanisms. It offers a comprehensive and technical approach to understanding JavaScript's inner workings and is suitable for intermediate and advanced learners who want to master the language.
Good introduction to Vue.js. It covers the basics of the framework, including how to create components, handle state, and handle events.
Good introduction to Webpack. It covers the basics of the tool, including how to create a build process, configure loaders, and optimize the build output.
Save
Assumes no programming experience and introduces you to all the fundamental concepts of JavaScript, such as variables, loops, functions, and objects. It includes practical examples to help you learn how to use JavaScript to its full potential.
Is an introduction to JavaScript, covering everything from the basics to advanced topics. It's written in a clear and concise style, and it includes practical examples to help you learn how to use JavaScript to its full potential.
Reference guide to JavaScript. It covers all of the major topics in the language, including variables, loops, functions, objects, and arrays.
Beginner-friendly introduction to JavaScript. It uses a visual approach to teach the language, making it easy to understand for people with no prior programming experience.
Save
Good introduction to AngularJS. It covers the basics of the framework, including how to create components, handle state, and handle events.
Is written for web designers who want to learn how to use JavaScript to add interactivity to their websites. It covers the basics of JavaScript, such as variables, loops, functions, and objects, and it includes practical examples to help you learn how to use JavaScript to its full potential.
Guide to using JavaScript design patterns to build reusable and maintainable code. It covers the basics of JavaScript, such as variables, loops, functions, and objects, and it includes practical examples to help you learn how to use JavaScript to its full potential.
Save
Guide to using JavaScript design patterns to build reusable and maintainable code. It covers the basics of JavaScript, such as variables, loops, functions, and objects, and it includes practical examples to help you learn how to use JavaScript to its full potential.
Is an excellent introduction to JavaScript for web developers. It covers the basics of the language, as well as more advanced topics such as event handling, AJAX, and JSON.
Fun and engaging introduction to JavaScript. It uses a lot of visual aids and examples to help you learn the language.
Comprehensive guide to JavaScript for everyone.
Showcases advanced JavaScript techniques and patterns used by professional developers. It covers topics such as closures, prototypal inheritance, and functional programming. While it assumes a solid foundation in JavaScript, it offers valuable insights for those looking to enhance their JavaScript skills and write high-quality code.
Combines coverage of JavaScript and jQuery, providing a practical guide to building interactive and dynamic web applications. It includes hands-on examples and projects, making it suitable for learners who want to apply their JavaScript knowledge to real-world web development scenarios.
Focuses on using JavaScript for web development, covering topics such as DOM manipulation, event handling, and Ajax. It provides a practical approach to building interactive and dynamic web pages. While it may not cover all the concepts in the course, it offers a solid foundation for web-specific JavaScript applications.
Provides a comprehensive guide to building interactive web applications using vanilla JavaScript, without relying on any external libraries or frameworks. It covers topics such as DOM manipulation, event handling, and asynchronous programming. While it may overlap with some of the course content, it can serve as a valuable reference for deeper exploration of vanilla JavaScript's capabilities.
Save
Great introduction to JavaScript for kids.
Introduces functional programming concepts in the context of JavaScript. It covers topics such as higher-order functions, currying, and immutability. While it assumes some JavaScript knowledge, it provides a valuable perspective for those interested in exploring functional programming and its applications in JavaScript.
Great way to introduce kids to JavaScript. It uses a fun and engaging approach to teach the basics of the language.
Save
Collection of essays on JavaScript. It covers topics such as the language's design, its strengths and weaknesses, and its future.
Save
Collection of recipes for solving common JavaScript problems.
Save
Is an introduction to React, a popular JavaScript library for building user interfaces. It covers the basics of React, such as how to create components, handle state, and render data, and it includes practical examples to help you learn how to use React to its full potential.
Collection of design patterns for JavaScript. It provides guidance on how to write clean, maintainable, and reusable code.
Offers a beginner-friendly introduction to modern JavaScript, covering topics such as ES6 features, React, and Node.js. It provides a practical approach with step-by-step tutorials and examples, making it suitable for those with little to no prior programming experience who want to quickly get started with JavaScript.
Comprehensive guide to JavaScript for dummies.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/hl7ne0/interactivity
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Level
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Institution
University of Michigan
Instructors
Colleen van Lent, Ph.D.
Charles Russell Severance
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Web Design for Everybody: Basics of Web Development & Coding. It's comprised of five courses:
- Web Design for Everybody Capstone
- Advanced Styling with Responsive Design
- Introduction to CSS3
- Interactivity with JavaScript (viewing)
- Introduction to HTML5
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