This simple loop should work (even with OPTION STRICT ON
):
Dim dataset_cloned = dataset_original.Clone()
dataset_cloned.Tables(0).Columns("int_column_name_goes_here").DataType = GetType(String)
For i As Int32 = 0 To dataset_original.Tables.Count - 1
Dim tbl_original As DataTable = dataset_original.Tables(i)
Dim tbl_cloned As DataTable = dataset_cloned.Tables(i)
For Each row As DataRow In tbl_original.Rows
tbl_cloned.Rows.Add(row.ItemArray)
Next
Next