We had a chat with George Chiang creator of www.javascriptkit.com…
Could you provide a bit of information about yourself and javascriptkit.com?
I started becoming interested in web design and JavaScript while I was in college studying Computer Science. At that time I had just put up my own little site on Geocities for fun, and JavaScript was just so much more interesting to me than say C++ as I started applying bits of JavaScript on my site and getting instant gratification out of it.
JavaScript Kit as a site technically started as that hobby site of mine on Geocities over 10 years ago. Back then it was called something else, though much of the original content remains, just updated to stay current. In a way JavaScript Kit offers a timeline of adventures with JavaScript.
What does JavaScriptKit.com offer someone coding a site ?
I’d like to think JavaScript Kit has something to offer to JavaScript coders of all stages. There’s the Free JavaScript sections for and cut and pasters, the intermediate tutorials for those learning the language, plus the JavaScript Reference sections for anyone that just need a quick reminder on a certain JavaScript syntax .
Where does JavaScript fit in with HTML, CSS and server side scripts such as PHP? How should someone building a site use them together?
I think JavaScript has always played the role of middleman between HTML and server side scripting. In the beginning, it served just as a way to perform tasks that would otherwise require server side scripting, such as form validation. These days with the popularity of Ajax, it literally plays the intermediary between client and server side communication.
When a developer comes to using JavaScript on their site have you any best practice advice to help them?
With the rise of JavaScript frameworks such as jQuery and MooTools, it’s tempting for a new comer to skip learning the fundamentals of JavaScript and dive straight into these frameworks. I think this is a mistake, because frameworks are not meant to displace the need to learn a language, but to more easily create complex applications using it. A good understanding of JavaScript is essential in properly harnessing the power of JavaScript frameworks.
What are the most popular JavaScript scripts on your site?
The form Validation and Combo Box scripts have always been very popular.
How do you see use of JavaScript developing in the next few years?
I see JavaScript taking on more and more tasks that are currently being done using server side scripting. It makes sense to take advantage of each user’s browser and CPU resources as much as possible, instead of having the site’s server shoulder the entire burden.
Have you any examples of sites that have used JavaScript in an attractive, interesting or novel way?
I think there are too many to list. Virtually every site on the web uses JavaScript to some degree. One site that really showcases the power of JavaScript and Ajax is Google Maps.
Are there any resources on the internet you use that you would recommend for beginners and advanced coders?
One of my favorite JavaScript resource is Mozilla’s Developer Center: https://developer.mozilla.org/En It covers the myriad of technologies that together make up client side scripting.
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