New JavaScript in Drupal 6: AHAH and Drag and Drop

SESSION OVERVIEW
Drupal 6 presents exciting new opportunities for implementing user interfaces in JavaScript. The new AHAH (a cousin of AJAX) framework can easily update forms by using Form API properties. Drupal also becomes the first CMS to implement drag and drop structures within a table, using the new core tabledrag.js file. This session will introduce both of these new core features, demonstrate how to implement them, and answer questions about where JavaScript is headed in Drupal 7.

AGENDA
* Intro to AHAH (what is it, how does it work)
* AHAH and Drag and drop demos
* Implement an AHAH example
* Implement a drag and drop table
* Thoughts on where JavaScript is headed for Drupal 7

GOALS
The primary goal of this session is to deliver information about JavaScript in Drupal 6. We’ll also cover questions about targets for Drupal 7.

RESOURCES
Experience in JavaScript is not necessary to benefit from this session. Both features are implemented directly from PHP, allowing non-JavaScript developers to leverage these new systems.

Because we’ll have module demos, a local working copy of Drupal 6 on your laptop will allow you to follow along in the presentation, but is completely optional.