Possible AJAX approach to nested data problem?

Rails
1

Greetings,
I am curious to see if anyone can suggest an efficient approach to a
problem I am having with nested AJAX forms which I am trying to avoid.

For example, let’s say we have 3 models:

  1. Problem (has_many :questions)
  2. Question (belongs_to :problem, has_many :answers)
  3. Answer (belongs_to :question)

I have a form that allows a user to document a problem.

Also, the user is able to pose 0…n questions for the documented
problem and then 0…n possible answers for each question posed.

I was using a form_remote_tag to add questions on the problem form
page by using the form_remote_tag to call a method that returns
another ajax form (form_remote_tag) to do add any possible answers to
the question. I know, I know nested forms-ugh.

The returned answers are showing up in the wrong DOM elements; I’m
pretty sure I can develop a workaround, but I am getting this feeling
that I used to when using Java and JSPs and AJAX where code starts
getting real convoluted. I am sure there are some Rails hackers out
there that can suggest a cleaner, more Railesque way. Form.serialize
perhaps?

Thanks-David

The question I have for the community is how you, in general, would
approach such a problem. Would you use AJAX type forms to keep a user
on one page or would you split it up.

2

The question I have for the community is how you, in general, would
approach such a problem. Would you use AJAX type forms to keep a user
on one page or would you split it up.

3 Options

  1. Dont use nested forms, because - quite simply - they dont work.
    (easiest)
  2. Use link_to_remote :with (wont support multipart)
  3. Use modal windows ala lightbox. (looks pretty)
3

Thanks Matt,
I have kind of reached conclusion 1. I’ll peek at a lightbox approach
and maybe even an IFRAME. Thanks again-David