update ajax method to send data, fixes #66

# update ajax method to send data, fixes #66

**submitting pull request early for feedback.**

## Summary

- Serialize data into parameter string. 
- Append to url for "GET" requests.
- Or, format as "www-form-urlencoded" for "POST" request.

## Notes:
complies with jQuery JavaScript Style Guide.

## TODO:
- [ ] add unit tests

Also maybe replace settings.data with params here too?