In Labguru, a Form Element can be used not only to document data in a structured manner, but also collect it into a centralized dataset.
There are two types of datasets - Serial, which is discussed in this article, and Table dataset.
To learn about the main differences between the two types click here.
Key Points about Forms and Serial Datasets
The Form field names will become the column headers in the Dataset.
Each time the protocol is used in a new experiment, one additional entry is added to the Dataset.
If you design the Form as a protocol on its own, it can be loaded and used in different experiments, even if each experiment started from a different protocol.
In the Form settings, row duplication should be disabled.
If you want to use the row duplication function, consider using a Table dataset.
When to Use a Serial Dataset
This Dataset is suitable when collecting a single entry of data from each experiment.
It supports collection of data gathered in a serial way, from executive experiments that are executed at different times, by different people, and even as part of different procedures.
Here are some example for cases where this could be useful:
Document custom metadata of experiments.
Easily compare results across multiple conditions and experiments.
Keep track of control values across multiple experiments.
Collect information about activity, for example how many hours are spent on each procedure, and easily analyze this data.
Creating a Serial Dataset
Generate a protocol with a Form element (learn more on this here).
Make sure to add field names for each of your fields in the Form. The fields' names will be the column name in the dataset.
After the form is built click on "Link with dataset".
A pop-up window appears to name the dataset and showing the dataset headers.
Once the link is created, you can start a new experiment from the protocol, populating the Form and linked dataset.
You can access the dataset from the link in the Form or from the Knowledge module > Datasets.