Javascript FAQ
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What is JavaScript?
JavaScript is a scripting language widely used for client-side web development. It is also known as ECMAScript and has been progressively improved over the years.
Since Moodle 3.8 we recommend the use of Native JavaScript rather than through a library such as jQuery or YUI, and require that all new JavaScript be written in the style of ES 2015 modules. These should be placed in the amd/src directory of a component and are transpiled at development time to be compatable with a wide range of browsers.
Where do I find general information about JavaScript?
Online resources:
Books:
- JavaScript: The Good Parts by Douglas Crockford
- JavaScript: The Definitive Guide, Fifth Edition by David Flanagan - Really the ultimate reference guide (nearly 1000 pages).
- The JavaScript Anthology: 101 Essential Tips, Tricks & Hacks by James Edwards & Cameron Adams - Promotes accessible JavaScript solutions by following the principles of progressive enhancement and unobtrusive scripting.
How is JavaScript used by Moodle?
- See Javascript.
Where do I find more information about JavaScript in Moodle?
- JavaScript Guidelines by Tim Hunt (work in progress)
- Use of JavaScript in Moodle discussion in the General developer forum
What JavaScript library does Moodle use?
JQuery
This feature has been marked as deprecated since Moodle 3.8
As of Moodle 3.8, the user of jQuery is generally discouraged and the use of Native or Vanilla Javascript is recommended.
Yahoo! User Interface Library (YUI)
This feature has been marked as deprecated since Moodle 2.9
As of Moodle 2.9, the user of YUI is generally discouraged.
Online resources:
- Yahoo! User Interface Library (YUI)
- YUI in the Moodle documentation
- Migrating YUI code to jQuery
Books:
- YUI 3 Cookbook by Evan Goer
- Maintainable JavaScript by Nicholas C. Zakas
Why are we moving away from YUI ?
The decision to begin the transition from YUI to JQuery was made here:
https://tracker.moodle.org/browse/MDL-47036
This is in response to Yahoos announcement that they will be ceasing all further development on YUI (although it is still maintained). http://yahooeng.tumblr.com/post/96098168666/important-announcement-regarding-yui
