JavaScript Library Selector
About This MicroSim
This MicroSim guides you through selecting the right JavaScript library for your visualization needs.
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Description
The Library Selector presents a decision tree that helps you choose among seven popular visualization libraries:
Available Libraries
| Library | Best For | Size |
|---|---|---|
| p5.js | Animations, simulations, creative coding | ~800KB |
| Chart.js | Bar, line, pie, radar charts | ~200KB |
| Plotly.js | Scientific plots, 3D visualizations | ~3MB |
| vis-network | Node-edge graphs, concept maps | ~500KB |
| vis-timeline | Timelines, schedules, events | ~400KB |
| Leaflet.js | Maps, geographic data | ~150KB |
| Mermaid.js | Flowcharts, diagrams from text | ~2MB |
How to Use
- Answer the question about what you need to visualize
- Follow the decision path based on your requirements
- Receive a library recommendation with details
- Click library cards at the bottom to compare options
Learning Objectives
After using this MicroSim, students will be able to:
- Select the appropriate JavaScript library for a given visualization task
- Compare library features, sizes, and learning curves
- Apply the decision criteria when starting new projects
Lesson Plan
Introduction (5 minutes)
- Discuss why library choice matters (bundle size, learning curve, features)
- Show examples of visualizations from each library
Decision Tree Activity (10 minutes)
- Present 3 different scenarios:
- "I need to show population growth over time as a line chart"
- "I want to create an interactive pendulum simulation"
- "I need to visualize relationships between concepts"
- Have students use the selector to find recommendations
Comparison Discussion (10 minutes)
- Compare recommendations for similar needs (e.g., Chart.js vs Plotly)
- Discuss trade-offs: simplicity vs features, size vs capability
Practical Application (5 minutes)
- Students identify their own upcoming project needs
- Use the selector to choose a starting library