The render_common_form_elements function was removed in the base class and it's contents put into the render_form_element function. These changes mean that some elements may not be required to override the render_form_element function, such as the studentname element, where this function was removed.
Rather than using grouped elements which can span across multiple lines on a small screen, the elements are now generated within a header element, keeping them separated and making the form more manageable. The base class was also changed to accomodate this by making it easier for elements to utilise common features.
Elements are sub-plugins that have the same abilities as a core plugin, such as creating tables, capabilities and performing upgrades.
Currently elements can define -
* What additional form elements are rendered when adding the element to the customcert customisation page.
* How the data from the additional form elements is validated and saved.
* How the element is rendered on the PDF.
* How the element handles removing data when it is deleted.