ActionScript

What is it?

ActionScript is the language that controls interactivity in Flash applications. This past week you have worked with Flash timelines that run from start to finish--that is, using a linear approach to the timeline. ActionScript allows you to make your flash movie non-linear and responsive to interaction with the user. This is done primarily through the use of buttons, and movieclips to which actions are assigned.

ActionScript 2 vs ActionScript 3

Since Adobe took over Flash from Macromedia there has been a significant revision to ActionScript. The current version, shipping with Adobe CS3, is ActionScript 3, and utilizes a much more object oriented, and to my mind, less intuitive approach to scripting. Since most of the workstations that you have access to around campus are loaded with Macromedia Flash, I will be presenting methods of working with ActionScript 2. If you would prefer to go straight to ActionScript 3, you can do so with the extensive set of tutorials included with Flash CS3.

It is still possible to use ActionScript 2 in Adobe Flash CS3. To do so you simply choose this option when you create a new flash file.

ActionScript is a full featured and extensive language. We will just brush the surface of its capabilities with timeline control and buttons. Flash has an extensive help system as well as tutorials and online resources if you wish to take it further.

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