LMSGENERATOR: Multi-target learning management system generator based on generative programming and component engineering

Generative and component approaches are revolutionizing software development just as automation and componentization revolutionized manufacturing. Key technologies for automating program development are Generative Programming for program synthesis, Component Engineering for modularity. In this paper we show the contribution of these two approaches in the implementation of a multi-target learning management system generator adaptable to different target runtime environment. This article introduces the basics of a new programming method of virtual learning environments. This approach is based on generative programming that integrates the user specifications (abstract models) and technologies desired in order to produce bricks software, then put them together to produce a solution adapted to area and users´ needs. This idea is used at different levels in the design and implementation of our system LMSGENERATOR, a software factory for business components and platforms for distance learning. In this work, we present the challenges, the methodology followed and the implementation of our approach: LMSGENERATOR, with these two generation process and We promote the idea that using this approach based on open business models, adaptable, and scalable to obtain open learning environments, adaptable, and scalable. Specifically, thanks to the generative programming, new technologies or new needs can be easily integrated at any time merely by changing the generators.