What are SCORM and xAPI?
SCORM and xAPI are eLearning standards that help online courses communicate tracking data to Learning Management Systems.
SCORM stands for Sharable Content Object Reference Model. xAPI stands for Experience API. Both are used to track learning activity, but they work in different ways and support different levels of reporting.
In this article, we explain what SCORM and xAPI are, how SCORM and xAPI courses are created, what they can track, and the benefits and limitations of using SCORM.
How to create a SCORM or xAPI course
To create a SCORM or xAPI course, you usually need an eLearning authoring tool that can export content in the required format.
Common SCORM and xAPI authoring tools include:
These tools allow you to build interactive eLearning modules, organise content, add assessments and create a structured learning experience.
Once the course has been created, it can be exported as a SCORM or xAPI package and uploaded to a compatible Learning Management System.
What can you track in a SCORM course?
SCORM courses can track key information about Learner progress and performance. This can include:
- Completion status
- Assessment scores
- Time spent in the course
- Lesson status
- Specific interactions within the course
This tracking data helps administrators monitor Learner progress, check completion rates and identify where Learners may need additional support.
What can you track in an xAPI course?
xAPI offers more flexible tracking than SCORM and can capture a wider range of learning experiences.
Learning activities
xAPI can track when Learners access specific modules or sections, how long they spend on each activity, and the sequence of their interactions.
This helps administrators understand how Learners move through a course.
Assessments and performance
xAPI can record Learner responses, scores, assessment attempts and other performance data.
This can help organisations identify strengths, weaknesses and knowledge gaps.
Multimedia interactions
xAPI can track how Learners interact with media such as video, audio, simulations and interactive content.
This can help course creators understand which elements are being used and how effective they are.
Social learning and collaboration
xAPI can record participation in discussion forums, group tasks, collaborative activities and peer-to-peer interactions.
This gives organisations better insight into social and collaborative learning.
Real-world applications
Unlike SCORM, xAPI can track learning activity outside a traditional LMS.
This can include on-the-job training, fieldwork, practical tasks, coaching, workshops or real-world application of skills.
Learning analytics and insights
xAPI data can be used for deeper learning analytics.
Organisations can review patterns, trends and correlations to improve course design, personalise learning and make better training decisions.
Benefits of using SCORM
- Interoperability: SCORM-compliant courses can be uploaded to many SCORM-compatible Learning Management Systems, making it easier to move content between platforms.
- Standardisation: SCORM provides a common structure for packaging, delivering and tracking eLearning content. This helps course creators and LMS platforms work together more consistently.
- Tracking and reporting: SCORM can track completion, scores, time spent and other useful course data. This helps administrators report on Learner progress and course effectiveness.
- Reusability: SCORM packages are self-contained, so they can often be reused, repurposed or uploaded to different LMS platforms. This can save time when managing training content.
Limitations of using SCORM
- Limited interactivity: SCORM is useful for tracking standard eLearning courses, but it can be restrictive for highly interactive simulations, complex branching, offline learning or advanced learning experiences.
- Limited real-time and offline tracking: SCORM usually depends on the Learner being connected to the LMS while completing the course. This can make it harder to capture offline activity or real-world learning experiences.
- Technical complexity: Creating, uploading and troubleshooting SCORM packages can sometimes require technical knowledge, especially when working across different authoring tools and LMS platforms.
Conclusion
SCORM and xAPI are important eLearning standards that help organisations create, deliver and track online courses.
SCORM is widely used, reliable and useful for standard LMS-based tracking. xAPI is more flexible and can capture a broader range of learning experiences, including activity outside the LMS.
Understanding both standards helps organisations choose the right approach for their courses, reporting needs and Learner experience.