How to Learn JavaScript & jQuery

In today’s job market, any technical skill can be a game changer. Learning how to code websites from scratch using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and jQuery can make any job seeker look more enticing to employers. The number of learning options might be overwhelming at first glance. There are books, video tutorials, classes, and more to choose from; it all depends on your learning style and personal preferences. 

Before diving in, it’s essential to understand the nuances of different methods of learning JavaScript and jQuery, so you can make an informed decision about how you’d like to get started.

What is JavaScript & jQuery?

JavaScript is a programming language used to create more interactive websites, while jQuery is a framework for JavaScript. In many ways, they function similarly and have been around for several years. However, several critical differences between JavaScript and jQuery exist. JavaScript has broader uses as a programming language. It has many built-in ways to make websites more dynamic, while jQuery–a more targeted framework–has a limited range. John Resig created jQuery to make JavaScript web development faster. 

The features of JavaScript and jQuery are also different since they are designed to be used in contrasting situations. JavaScript is used in server-side applications; jQuery is used just for client-side development. When used together, they can simplify the process of web development. jQuery is quicker and easier to use by simplifying code writing in JavaScript. Its framework allows users to compress JavaScript tasks into fewer lines of code. Individuals can use jQuery to reduce their development time. It is wise to use jQuery to make browser compatibility easier. 

Read more about what JavaScript and jQuery are and why you should learn them. 

What Can You Do with JavaScript & jQuery?

Individuals can use JavaScript and jQuery for many purposes. JavaScript is used on the client side and the server side. It allows individuals to make web pages interactive and is mainly for web applications and web browsers. JavaScript is used for showing or hiding information with a button, changing the color of a button, zooming in or out, playing audio and video, displaying animations, or using a drop-down hamburger menu. It is also used to create browser games and web and mobile apps.

jQuery is not a programming language but a tool to facilitate web development in JavaScript. Individuals can even use any JavaScript editor to write jQuery, such as Notepad, Visual Studio, Eclipse, or Ultra edit. jQuery can be used to develop Ajax-based applications, to make code simple and reusable, to simplify the traversal of HTML DOM tree, and to perform animation and ajax support in web applications. jQuery also helps individuals to make flash-like animated applications. Using jQuery, individuals only need to know JavaScript and HTML to create animations. Web designers can use many impressive effects to make their designs more elegant. 

In-Person JavaScript & jQuery Training

Cross-compare different JavaScript and jQuery training types before signing up for a course. Most experts recommend learning from a live instructor. Luckily, Noble offers high-quality in-person JavaScript and jQuery training. Noble’s courses include small class sizes with individualized attention and mentorship. In-person classes are an excellent option for individuals who enjoy training in a classroom setting with an instructor in front of them. In-person training may be challenging for some. Considering the transportation and potential traffic involved in attending in-person courses is essential. Some individuals may also not have the time to dedicate to in-person learning or live near a training center. 

Individuals who wish to train in person can attend one of Noble’s courses in NYC. Classes such as JavaScript Development Certificate, React Development Bootcamp, and JavaScript Programming Bootcamp are all available. Some of Noble’s other available courses include Full Stack Web Development Certificate and Web Development Industry and Portfolio. Other schools are also offering in-person courses. UCLA Extension offers a JavaScript course in Los Angeles, CTS Training offers one in Chicago, and AcademyX offers courses in San Francisco, San Diego, San Jose, Sacramento, and Los Angeles.

Live Online JavaScript & jQuery Training

Perks and drawbacks exist for live online JavaScript and jQuery training. This type of training is ideal for those who enjoy taking classes from convenient locations, such as homes or offices. Online learning allows for more flexibility than in-person courses, but with this flexibility comes more responsibility. Individuals must be able to meet course deadlines and set aside specific times to complete classwork. These location-based classes require time management skills to improve productivity. With online learning, individuals can learn in the way that is best for them. They can rewatch or reread course materials if needed and take notes independently. 

Noble Desktop offers various online JavaScript and jQuery courses. Courses such as JavaScript Development Certificate, React Development Bootcamp, and JavaScript Programming Bootcamp are all available through Noble Desktop. Noble’s live online courses are interactive, and individuals can ask questions in real-time. Some other providers offering online courses include Practical Programming, Coderhouse, Technosoft Academy, General Assembly, Certstaffix Training, and NextGen Bootcamp. 

Free Online Courses & Tutorials

Are you ready to learn new skills but not dive into an in-depth course? Looking for an overview of JavaScript and jQuery? Start learning JavaScript and jQuery for free online. In Noble’s Video Tutorial: Introduction to JavaScript, individuals learn the client side of JavaScript. Individuals learn what to do with JavaScript and receive examples of such, as well as client-side versus Server-side JavaScript and an overview of popular JavaScript libraries. Other topics covered include:

• Defining and using variables and strings.
• Performing calculations.
• Working with the DOM.
• Using external JavaScript files. 

Other providers offer free JavaScript and jQuery courses, such as Codecademy and Udacity, which offer courses like Intro to jQuery and Learn JavaScript. Both courses last between 20 and 48 hours. 

Read more about free JavaScript and jQuery videos and online tutorials. 

On-Demand JavaScript & jQuery Classes

Another way to learn JavaScript and jQuery is through on-demand training. On-demand training allows individuals to access their courses anywhere, anytime. It helps individuals acquire knowledge quickly and learn precisely the skills they need. It is also a cost-effective way to learn. There are also drawbacks to on-demand learning. It doesn’t allow individuals to be fully immersed in a topic of study, as they are often required to absorb information too quickly. This form of training may also feel a bit isolated, as there is no interaction with the trainer or other learners. 

One school offering on-demand JavaScript and jQuery training is Treehouse. Treehouse offers Full Stack JavaScript Techdegree, designed for beginners, and allows individuals to earn a certificate in full stack development. Udacity offers an intermediate course through which individuals take their next steps in education with JavaScript. The course requires a platform subscription and begins with an introduction to object-oriented programming. 

Individuals can take beginner, intermediate, and advanced courses on JavaScript and jQuery with on-demand training. There are both free and paid classes available. Individuals can find a method that works best for them and educate themselves at their own pace.

Which Learning Method is Right for Me?

With so many different resources available to help beginners learn JavaScript and jQuery, you might need clarification on which is best for you. Since individuals vary in learning styles and preferences, it might be worth experimenting with multiple tools to see which one feels right. One of the great things about directing your learning is that you pick which combination of tools you prefer; you don’t have to stick with what a teacher chooses.

It’s also essential to consider your current schedule before selecting a learning method. Some have a lot of responsibilities like a full-time job or family commitments; those would-be students may struggle to devote time to a structured course that requires attendance at the same time every day. If this is your case, a self-paced class or video tutorials may be better since you can access them when your schedule allows. On the other hand, those with a more flexible schedule may prefer a structured course offered in-person or live online. Some individuals may need the accountability of a structured course and can move commitments to make it work. Ultimately, learning JavaScript and jQuery must be balanced with work, family, and learning preferences.

Why Learn JavaScript & jQuery?

Reasons abound as to why you should learn JavaScript and jQuery. Programmers should learn several languages, as there is no such thing as knowing too many languages. One of the most commonly used languages is JavaScript. JavaScript is a great language to learn, as it is growing exponentially. 

JavaScript was first created in 1995 and is a programming language that allows individuals to make complex things on websites. It is perfect for those just starting with programming and will enable individuals to expand their skill set. Through JavaScript, individuals can create visual effects and other aesthetically pleasing features. It is a valuable tool for game designers and can increase one's career potential. 

jQuery is used to build interactivity in websites and allows Developers to use code snippets to do traversal on the page or make changes to different elements using JavaScript. One of the most basic uses for jQuery is adding functionality to a website's button. It provides all the tools needed to simplify this process. Those working at a small business with legacy code will likely use jQuery. It helps individuals to understand the foundational level of what JavaScript is doing on a page. 

Read more about why you should learn JavaScript and jQuery.

Level of Difficulty, Prerequisites, & Cost 

JavaScript and jQuery function similarly and have been around for many years. When used together, they can simplify the process of web development. JavaScript is considered to be one of the easiest languages to grasp. It is a step up from learning fundamental web development skills, but individuals can learn the basics of JavaScript in a matter of months. jQuery is also simple and can be learned in a matter of hours. Understanding the core JavaScript language is essential, making it easier to use jQuery properly. 

Individuals should complete any course prerequisites before learning JavaScript and jQuery. Using both JavaScript and jQuery requires knowledge of HTML and CSS; thus, any student must master these before enrolling in a course. Additionally, jQuery requires prior hands-on experience creating simple websites. Individuals should understand the basics of programming and know about DOM manipulation. 

The cost of learning JavaScript and jQuery varies. Individuals may be interested in free, introductory-level courses, but enrolling in more in-depth classes is usually necessary. Some providers require individuals to have a monthly subscription to access their courses, while others have a set fee for each class. Potential students must consider the cost of taking prerequisites plus their JavaScript and jQuery classes. Noble Desktop’s JavaScript for Front End course is under $1K for 18 hours of instruction. Some of Noble’s more in-depth courses range from $1,250 to $5,995. 

Individuals can easily access JavaScript and jQuery through a few simple steps. There are multiple ways to install and use jQuery. Individuals can use jQuery with a CDN, download the jQuery library from jQuery.com, or use npm, Yarn, or Bower. JavaScript is part of a browser’s runtime by default in every modern browser. 

Read about how difficult it is to learn JavaScript and jQuery.

Learn JavaScript with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

Individuals can learn JavaScript with hands-on training from Noble Desktop. Many of their classes provide high-level JavaScript skills. With expert instructors, small classes, and free retake options, Noble’s courses provide the JavaScript instruction necessary to advance in a new career. 

Noble’s JavaScript Development Certificate is the perfect course for anyone who knows HTML/CSS and wants to become a JavaScript Developer. Individuals learn to build web apps with JavaScript and gain the necessary skills to find a career in application development. The course covers building dynamic web applications with React and Node.js, creating APIs with Express.js, and working with databases with MongoDB. 

Another course is their Full Stack Web Development Certificate, which focuses on JavaScript and teaches individuals to work on all aspects of a web application. The program covers HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Git, starting with front end web development and continuing with back-end programming. Other JavaScript classes and bootcamps include Software Engineering Certificate and Front End Web Development Certificate. 

Key Insights

• Experts have created many different methods for learning, including books, online tutorials, live online classes, and in-person classes. 
• Gaining JavaScript and jQuery skills can open the door to a new career or serve to enhance your current qualifications. 
• Depending on the learning method selected, learning JavaScript and jQuery doesn’t have to be expensive; however, individuals must factor the cost of learning HTML and CSS into the equation as they are prerequisites. 
• You can receive comprehensive JavaScript and jQuery training through an in-person or live online course with Noble Desktop.