Heres where I learned it (Great programming site!) http://www.w3schools.com/js/js_intro.asp
Heres an exerpt. (or two)
Are Java and JavaScript the Same?
NO!
Java and JavaScript are two completely different languages in both concept and design!
Java (developed by Sun Microsystems) is a powerful and much more complex programming language - in the same category as C and C++.
What is JavaScript?
* JavaScript was designed to add interactivity to HTML pages
* JavaScript is a scripting language
* A scripting language is a lightweight programming language
* A JavaScript consists of lines of executable computer code
* A JavaScript is usually embedded directly into HTML pages
* JavaScript is an interpreted language (means that scripts execute without preliminary compilation)
* Everyone can use JavaScript without purchasing a license
So... You don't need a compiler :P
I found it easy to learn.