Javascript & Search Engine Spider

Do Spider handles javascript

[new web developer 1]

I know that Spiders don't handle java based code. But do they handle, javascript? I have a web page with a 'Next' link which is basically a javascript link. Now the search engine spider is not crawling to the next page.
Can anyone please help on this?

[daveVk]

Do not rely on search engines understanding javascript, although there is some evidence google will explore url like text within the page. Is there a good reason why a javascript is needed ? if so include normal link as well as the javascript.

[Fotiman]

Welcome to WebmasterWorld. The short answer to your question is no, search engines do not understand JavaScript. For that reason (as well as for accessibility) you should treat JavaScript as a "Progressive Enhancement" to your page. In other words, don't rely on JavaScript, but instead use it to enhance your site for those that have JavaScript enabled.