Introduction to Open Source Contribution with the p5.js Editor
Are you interested in making meaningful contributions to open-source projects? This workshop focuses on the p5.js Editor, a browser-based software that serves the larger Processing Foundation community. Contributing to open source isn’t just about coding—there are many ways to support and grow projects, such as improving documentation, helping with outreach, or organizing community events. Participants will explore the history and goals of the Processing Foundation, learn how they can contribute to the p5.js editor in both technical and non-technical ways, and take part in hands-on activities to make their first contribution to an open source project.
By the end of this workshop, folks should be able to understand the fundamentals of open-source collaboration and discover different ways to contribute that align with their skills and interests!
Course Logistics
Dates: Saturday, April 5, 2025
Times: 12:00PM – 3:00PM
(Total: 3 hours)
Location: Gray Area / Grand Theater – 2665 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Cost: $120
Scholarship: We also offer Diversity Scholarships.
Apply by March 22, 2025.
Experience Level: Beginner – Advanced
Prerequisites:
Familiarity with JavaScript, HTML, CSS, Node.js, React, and REST API development is recommended for participants interested in the coding aspect, though not required for those who wish to make non-technical contributions.
Requirements:
- A laptop with a modern web browser and internet connection.
- A GitHub Account.
- Familiarity with JavaScript, HTML, CSS, Node.js, React, and REST API development. This is recommended for participants interested in the coding aspect, though not required for those who wish to make non-technical contributions.
Additional Information:
• No Refunds or Exchanges.
• View our FAQ here.
• Contact [email protected] with any questions.
Workshop Outline
- Introduction to open source and the p5.js Editor project
- Getting started with GitHub and p5.js Editor contribution guidelines
- Exploring the p5.js Editor and its needs
- Hands-on contribution activity
- Collaboration, review, reflection on next steps
About Technologies
The p5.js Editor has a technology stack that utilizes: React, Redux, Node.js, Express, and MongoDB. Git and GitHub will also be used. Further details can be found on the p5.js Editor’s GitHub repository, https://github.com/processing/p5.js-web-editor.
Educational Goals
This workshop aims to help participants unfamiliar with open-source projects feel equipped to engage with and contribute to these projects effectively. By the end of this workshop, participants should:
- Understand the fundamental components of an open source project (i.e Contributor Documentation, Code of Conduct, Licensing).
- Overview of different issues an open source project could face financially, legally, or interpersonally.
- How to navigate a GitHub repository.
- Awareness of different contribution pathways beyond coding.
- How to make code contributions such as: creating a pull request, opening issues, editing documentation.
- Have an understanding of how healthy, inclusive, and accessible online environments could be fostered through joint discussion on these questions and effective communication strategies.
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Partners
Processing Foundation
Processing Foundation promotes software learning within the arts, artistic learning within technology-related fields, and to celebrate the diverse communities that make these fields vibrant, liberatory, and innovative. Processing Foundation’s goal is to support people of all backgrounds in learning how to program and make creative work with code, especially those who might not otherwise have access to tools and resources. Processing Foundation believes that some of the most radical futures and innovative technologies are being built by communities that have been pushed to the margins by dominant tech. Processing Foundation hopes to support those who have been marginalized by technology in continued self-determination by providing time, space, and resources.
