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SCORM vs xAPI

Explaining xAPI to a 5th grader, click the image below

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Understanding SCORM vs xAPI
What is SCORM?
  • Shareable Content Object Reference Model
  • Learning standard used to publish interactive learning content
  • 1.1, 1.2, 2004 2nd Edition, 2004 3rd Edition, 2004 4th Edition (Versions)
  • Tracking simple “end result” outcomes of e-learning e.g. Completion, Success, Score, Time Tracked
What is xAPI?
  • Experience API (xAPI)
  • Learning standard used to publish interactive learning content
  • Format: Actor (A) : Verb (V) : Object (O)
    Examples
    Joe Black (A) viewed (V) the policy (O)
    Joe Black (A) correctly answered (V) the question ‘How many developers does it take to fix a bug’ by selecting ‘1’ (O)
    Joe Black (A) viewed (V) the Government Gazette website (O)
  • xAPI content can reside outside of the LMS
  • Since 2013 – 1.0.0, 1.0.1, 1.0.2, 1.0.3 - Versions

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Similarities
  • Can both reside on the LMS
  • Can both report on simple outcomes e.g. Completion, Success, Score, Time Tracked
  • Both are learning standards
Key differences
Learning standard / comparison area SCORM

xAPI
LMS Only run inside LMS Can run inside and outside of an LMS
Reporting Simple outcomes Advanced outcomes e.g. multiple scores
Web browser required Yes No
Decision time
Other standards
  • cmi5
  • cmi = computer managed instruction
    • Use xAPI learning standard as the communication protocol
    • Plus definition on packaging an structure
    • If xAPI is the electrical current, then cmi5 is the wall socket where you plug into your LMS!
  • AICC - Aviation Industry Computer-Based Training Committee
  • AICC - a specification of eLearning content, established by the committee from which it gets its name
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