Creating an AJAX Datatables Button to Open a Modal in Rails

Learn how to convert your existing Rails Datatables buttons into AJAX-compatible buttons that can open modals easily using simple example code.
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Handling Modals in AJAX Datatables Buttons in Ruby on Rails

Are you trying to implement an AJAX-compatible button in your Ruby on Rails application that opens a modal? You've come to the right place! This guide will walk you through the process of converting a static Datatables button to one that can trigger a modal using AJAX.

The Challenge

In a Ruby on Rails application, you might be using Datatables for better presentation of data. You run into a common scenario where you need some action buttons that invoke modals rather than redirecting to other pages or views. While you have successfully converted other buttons to work with AJAX, you're having trouble doing the same for a button intended to trigger a modal. Here’s a brief look at your existing structure that works without the modal:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

The Solution

To effectively open up a modal via an AJAX call, you'll need to represent your button correctly in your view. Below, I've provided a structured solution to create an AJAX button that triggers a modal with just the right attributes.

1. Code Conversion

Replace the pre-AJAX code with the following implementation that is compatible with AJAX:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Breakdown of the Code

Link Attributes: The use of "-" as the href keeps the user on the same page without any unwanted navigation.

Data Attributes: The data parameter provides essential attributes for the modal:

toggle: Specifies that it's a modal trigger.

target: Indicates which modal to open (in this case, -choose-course-modal0).

client_id: Passes the specific client ID to give context to the modal.

Conclusion

With this adjustment, your button will now properly trigger the desired modal when clicked while maintaining AJAX functionality for your Datatables. Remember to ensure your modal is correctly set up in your HTML to correspond with the ID specified in the button's data attributes.

If you run into any issues or need further customization, feel free to ask. Happy coding!