In my opinion the browser console is better for debugging than for learning. You have to know the basics of Javascript to be able to begin "messing" anyways, so

In my opinion the browser console is better for debugging than for learning. You have to know the basics of Javascript to be able to begin "messing" anyways, so it's not really the right "first step". A w3schools-style editable example would be a lot better, especially because you can integrate explanations and guidance into the page.