Using JavaScript and JSON in Django

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/django-javascript-json

Introduction

### Course Review: Using JavaScript and JSON in Django on Coursera If you're looking to elevate your web development skills, particularly in combining JavaScript with Django, the "Using JavaScript and JSON in Django" course on Coursera is a highly recommended experience. Aimed at learners who already possess foundational knowledge of Django and perhaps a smattering of JavaScript, this course serves as an excellent bridge between these two pivotal technologies, thereby enhancing your ability to create dynamic web applications. #### Course Overview This course concludes a series that delves deeply into JavaScript and its integration with Django. It covers several foundational aspects of JavaScript, including its support for Object-Oriented programming (OOP), the use of the jQuery library, and the critical role of JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) in resource exchange. With a pragmatic approach, this course imparts skills essential for modern web development, from crafting interactive interfaces to implementing AJAX for asynchronous data retrieval. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **JavaScript**: The course begins with the basics of JavaScript, catering to those who might find it a refresher. As a participant, you will explore JavaScript's syntax and capabilities tailored towards Django development. This introductory module sets the stage for the in-depth exploration to come. 2. **Object-Oriented JavaScript**: Here, the course highlights the nuances of JavaScript's Object-Oriented programming compared to Python’s! This section clarifies how OOP principles manifest differently across these two languages and why it matters in your coding practices. Understanding these differences is crucial, as it delves into the unique features of JavaScript's OOP, preparing you for more advanced programming challenges. 3. **JavaScript and the Browser**: One of the highlights of the course is understanding the JavaScript runtime environment in web browsers. Participants learn about DOM manipulation, event handling, and timers—all vital for creating responsive web applications. This knowledge is invaluable, allowing developers to marry backend logic with a fluid user interface. 4. **JSON / AJAX**: The course introduces JSON and AJAX, which are instrumental for modern web interaction. By enabling asynchronous requests, these technologies allow you to enrich user experience by updating the webpage dynamically without a full reload. This module is particularly useful for anyone looking to create a seamless interaction between the front-end and Django back-end. 5. **Ads #4 - Search**: The final module wraps the course up by taking a hands-on approach to extending your Django application with a functional search feature for a classified ads platform. This practical exercise consolidates the knowledge obtained throughout the course and provides tangible experience in enhancing a web application. #### Why You Should Enroll 1. **Practical Learning**: The course takes a highly practical approach, equipping you with the skills to implement the learned concepts into real-world applications. 2. **Clear Comparisons**: The focus on comparing JavaScript and Python will help you solidify your understanding of both languages. 3. **Hands-On Projects**: Working on a classified ads application makes the lessons feel relevant and engaging, offering immediate applications of what you’ve learned. 4. **Community Support**: Being part of the Coursera community allows you to connect with fellow learners, sharing insights and questions that deepen the learning experience. 5. **Flexible Scheduling**: With the ability to learn at your own pace, you can fit this course into your busy schedule, making it accessible for everyone. #### Final Recommendation The "Using JavaScript and JSON in Django" course on Coursera is a valuable resource for developers eager to enhance their web development toolkit. By bridging the gap between Django and JavaScript, students come away with enhanced capabilities to create interactive, user-friendly applications. Whether you are a seasoned developer or seeking to stretch your skill set, this course is a step well worth taking in your programming journey. Enroll today and start crafting better web experiences!

Syllabus

JavaScript

As we begin to add interactive elements to our web pages, we need to learn JavaScript. For students with a JavaScript background this will be a bit of review as we learn JavaScript from a Django perspective.

The Object-Oriented approach in JavaScript is different from Object Orientation in Python in some important ways. So we look at the unique features of the OO pattern in JavaScript. The high level concepts are the same between Python and JavaScript but the implementation details are different in important and subtle ways.

We look at particular aspects of the JavaScript run-time in a browser including manipulation of the Document Object Model(DOM), timers and event handling.

JSON and AJAX allow web pages to add interactivity and interact with the back-end without sending entire web pages back and forth to the server.

In this module we extend our application to add search to our classified ads application.