MABB Tutor: Java Applets

If you're new to Web authoring, you're probably wondering "What is the deal with Java?" and "What can it do for me?" Well, Java (and its cousin, JavaScript) are programming languages that allow small programs (or applets) to run on your computer when you launch a Web site. If you've seen a page that featured some cool effect, like scrolling text, or a pop-up window, odds are you're looking at a Java applet in action. If you'd like to include such cool features on your site you have two choices. You may either learn how to write Java programs yourself (a tough task) or you can go to any one of the various sites on the Web that offer free Java programs. Below is a roundup of many of the best Java and JavaScript repositories on the Web. Many offer free Java applets, or cut & paste JavaScript, with instructions for including them on your site. Others offer tutorials for learning the languages. A word of caution: despite all the hype, Java still has a ways to go before it becomes an essential part of Web authoring.

Suggested Reading

Considerations

If you include Java programs on your site, don't go overboard----many take a long time to load and, worse, can cause a browser to crash (which is a sure way of ensuring that your visitors won't return to your site). On the other hand, if you use restraint (and good judgment) Java and JavaScript can add a nice touch to your site, and perhaps even make it more useful for your visitors. Please send us E-mail if you're aware of any such free Java/JavaScript sites that we haven't listed below or if you find a dead link.

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