Alternatives to Nashorn - 29.10 | 29. Introduction to Scripting in Java (e.g., JavaScript Engine) | Advanced Programming
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Introduction to Alternatives

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Teacher
Teacher

As we know, Nashorn has been deprecated, and we must consider the modern alternatives available. What do you think this change means for Java developers?

Student 1
Student 1

I guess they need new tools for scripting, right?

Student 2
Student 2

Yes! It also means they might need to learn new languages or frameworks.

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! Let's explore some of these alternatives today. We'll start with GraalVM. Can anyone guess what a 'polyglot VM' means?

Student 3
Student 3

Does it mean it can work with multiple programming languages?

Teacher
Teacher

That's right! 'Polyglot' refers to the ability to support multiple languages within the same environment. GraalVM allows coding in JavaScript, Python, Ruby, and more. Shall we explore Jython next?

Exploring GraalVM

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Teacher
Teacher

GraalVM is designed to run applications with high performance. Can anyone think of a scenario where having multiple language support would be beneficial?

Student 4
Student 4

Maybe in a project where different teams use different languages?

Teacher
Teacher

Great point! This versatility enables teams to collaborate better. Now, what about Jython? How does it help Java developers?

Student 1
Student 1

It allows them to use Python, which is popular and has many libraries, right?

Teacher
Teacher

Correct! Jython acts as a bridge between Java and Python, allowing the use of Python libraries in Java applications.

Groovy and BeanShell

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Teacher
Teacher

Let's talk about Groovy next. Does anyone know how it differs from the other alternatives?

Student 2
Student 2

I think it's like a simpler version of Java?

Student 3
Student 3

Yes! It can be less verbose and often easier to write.

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! Groovy simplifies Java applications while retaining compatibility. Now, what about BeanShell?

Student 4
Student 4

BeanShell feels familiar since it uses Java-like syntax.

Teacher
Teacher

Right again! BeanShell makes it easy for Java developers to pick up, combining ease of use with Java's syntax.

Wrapping up Alternatives

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Teacher
Teacher

So, to recap, we explored four alternatives to Nashorn: GraalVM, Jython, Groovy, and BeanShell. Each has its unique advantages. What would you say is the key takeaway from our discussion?

Student 1
Student 1

That there are flexible options for integrating different languages into Java.

Student 2
Student 2

And it's good to know what fits best based on project needs!

Teacher
Teacher

Absolutely! Choosing the right tool can enhance both collaboration and development speed. Great job today everyone!

Introduction & Overview

Read a summary of the section's main ideas. Choose from Basic, Medium, or Detailed.

Quick Overview

With the deprecation of Nashorn, several modern alternatives provide Java developers with robust scripting options.

Standard

Nashorn, previously the default JavaScript engine in Java, is now deprecated. Several alternatives such as GraalVM, Jython, Groovy, and BeanShell offer developers advanced capabilities for integrating scripting languages into Java applications, ensuring flexible and dynamic software development.

Detailed

Alternatives to Nashorn

With the deprecation of Nashorn as of Java 11, developers need to explore other modern alternatives for incorporating scripting within their Java applications. Several robust solutions have emerged:

Modern Alternatives

  1. GraalVM: A high-performance polyglot virtual machine capable of executing JavaScript, Python, Ruby, and other languages, enabling seamless interaction across paradigms.
  2. Jython: This engine provides a Python interpreter for Java, allowing Python scripts to be executed and integrated within Java applications, catering to those who prefer Python's syntax and versatility.
  3. Groovy: An agile, dynamic language that integrates seamlessly with Java, Groovy offers a powerful scripting environment, ideal for simplifying tasks and enhancing Java applications with script-like behavior.
  4. BeanShell: A lightweight scripting language that resembles Java, making it an excellent choice for scenarios where Java-like syntax is preferred when executing scripts.

These alternatives maintain the flexibility and dynamic capabilities originally introduced by Nashorn, providing developers with various options to enhance their Java applications' configurability and extensibility.

Youtube Videos

Introduction To Nashorn The JVM JavaScript Engine
Introduction To Nashorn The JVM JavaScript Engine
Run JavaScript on JVM with Nashorn
Run JavaScript on JVM with Nashorn
Attila on Project Nashorn
Attila on Project Nashorn
Jim Laskey - Nashorn, JavaScript for the JVM
Jim Laskey - Nashorn, JavaScript for the JVM
Nashorn: JavaScript on the JVM
Nashorn: JavaScript on the JVM
Nashorn:Invoke JavaScript function in java 8
Nashorn:Invoke JavaScript function in java 8
Fitting Nashorn on the JVM with Attila Szegedi
Fitting Nashorn on the JVM with Attila Szegedi
Goodbye Nashorn, Hello GraalVM for high performance JavaScript on the JVM
Goodbye Nashorn, Hello GraalVM for high performance JavaScript on the JVM
Nashorn: Optimizing JavaScript and Dynamic Language Execution on the JVM
Nashorn: Optimizing JavaScript and Dynamic Language Execution on the JVM
Nashorn Modularity
Nashorn Modularity

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Overview of Alternatives

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With Nashorn deprecated, here are modern alternatives:

Detailed Explanation

This chunk introduces the idea that since Nashorn is no longer in use, developers have newer options to consider for integrating scripting into their Java applications. It sets the stage for discussing different engines that can serve as alternatives.

Examples & Analogies

Think of this like a store that used to carry a popular brand of shoes, but since they are no longer available, the store offers several similar brands that you can choose from.

GraalVM

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Engine Language Notes
GraalVM JavaScript, Python, Ruby, etc. High-performance polyglot VM.

Detailed Explanation

GraalVM is a modern alternative that supports multiple languages including JavaScript, Python, and Ruby. Its high-performance capabilities enable developers to run programs written in different languages while maintaining efficiency. Its 'polyglot' nature means you can seamlessly integrate these languages within the same application.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine a coffee shop that offers not just coffee, but also tea, smoothies, and more, allowing customers to enjoy a variety of drinks in a single place. GraalVM works similarly by allowing multiple programming languages to coexist in Java applications.

Jython

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Engine Language Notes
Jython Python Python interpreter for Java.

Detailed Explanation

Jython is an implementation of Python that runs on the Java platform. This means you can write Python code and execute it within a Java application. It allows Python developers to leverage Java libraries and frameworks directly, providing a great way to integrate the two languages.

Examples & Analogies

Think of Jython as a bilingual person who can communicate effectively in both English and Spanish, allowing them to connect with more people and use a variety of resources from both languages.

Groovy

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Engine Language Notes
Groovy Groovy Seamlessly integrates with Java.

Detailed Explanation

Groovy is a scripting language that is designed to be compatible with Java. It has a syntax that is similar to Java but offers more flexibility and syntactic sugar, allowing developers to write less boilerplate code. This integration makes it easy to drop Groovy scripts into Java applications.

Examples & Analogies

Consider Groovy as a tool that combines the best features of both a hammer and a screwdriver, allowing you to build things faster and more effectively without worrying too much about tool compatibility.

BeanShell

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Engine Language Notes
BeanShell Java-like Lightweight scripting.

Detailed Explanation

BeanShell is a lightweight and easy-to-use scripting language that has a syntax similar to Java. This makes it accessible for Java developers who want to add scripting capabilities without having to learn a completely new language. It's designed for quick scripting tasks within Java applications.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine BeanShell as a simple, versatile tool in your toolbox that is easy to use for quick fixes around the house, especially for someone who is already familiar with how to use more complex tools for building.

Definitions & Key Concepts

Learn essential terms and foundational ideas that form the basis of the topic.

Key Concepts

  • GraalVM: A versatile runtime that supports multiple languages.

  • Jython: A Java platform-supported Python interpreter for running Python code.

  • Groovy: A dynamic language that integrates smoothly into Java projects.

  • BeanShell: A lightweight scripting language with Java-like syntax.

Examples & Real-Life Applications

See how the concepts apply in real-world scenarios to understand their practical implications.

Examples

  • Using GraalVM, developers can seamlessly integrate Java and JavaScript code to enhance applications.

  • With Jython, a Java application can utilize a Python library to perform complex data analysis.

  • Groovy can reduce boilerplate code in Java applications, enabling faster development.

  • BeanShell allows for quick scripting without dealing with the complexity of a full-fledged Java environment.

Memory Aids

Use mnemonics, acronyms, or visual cues to help remember key information more easily.

🎵 Rhymes Time

  • GraalVM can spin languages like a web, while Jython brings Python to your Java bed.

📖 Fascinating Stories

  • Once in a coding town, the developers faced a frown when Nashorn was no longer around. They found GraalVM with its polyglot grace, and soon their Java code picked up the pace! Jython joined in the dance, bringing Python to enhance their chance. Groovy came, lightening the flow, while BeanShell was quick to bestow.

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • Remember GraalVM, Jython, Groovy, BeanShell - G, J, G, B - 'Going Just Great Buddies!'.

🎯 Super Acronyms

GJGB

  • GraalVM
  • Jython
  • Groovy
  • BeanShell - Think of it as your 'Great Java Growth Buddy'.

Flash Cards

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Glossary of Terms

Review the Definitions for terms.

  • Term: GraalVM

    Definition:

    A high-performance runtime that provides support for multiple programming languages, enabling polyglot applications.

  • Term: Jython

    Definition:

    An implementation of Python that runs on the Java platform, allowing the integration of Python scripts in Java applications.

  • Term: Groovy

    Definition:

    A dynamic language for Java platform that simplifies coding while maintaining compatibility with Java syntax and libraries.

  • Term: BeanShell

    Definition:

    A lightweight scripting language for Java that offers a syntax similar to Java, making it easy for developers to learn and use.