Learning Management Systems: Development Strategies for the Next Generation

The next generation of Learning Management Systems will enable or simulate a one-to-one student teacher learning environment via adaptive sequencing and navigation. These new products will integrate seamlessly with other best-in-class CMS and administrative applications. They will provide equal access to all, including physically-challenged students through Section 508 compliance, and they will intelligently reuse assessments across LMS and related test engines by conforming to the IMS QTI standard.

Existing, standalone LMS generally lack the scalability, reliability, secured access to multiple resources via single sign-on and interfaces to provide these features. But new development strategies, standards, and tools promise to move the LMS industry forward into this “next generation.” These strategies include SCORM 2004, SaaS development, and third-party solution enablers such as LDAP-based SSO, and CMS. At the same time, multi-shore, outsourced development options are lowering the overall cost of LMS ownership, improving quality focus, and providing faster time to markets.

This paper will interest ISV product managers and engineers of educational software products, chief learning officers and chief technology officers of corporate universities, along with information technology personnel at the community and state college level, including developers of custom applications & application services.

Download this Whitepaper (pdf, English)