SCORM stands for Sharable Content Object Reference Model. It is a set of technical standards and specifications that enables the interoperability, reusability, and compatibility of e-learning content and Learning Management Systems (LMS).
SCORM was developed by the Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL) Initiative, a program of the United States Department of Defense, with the aim of creating a common framework for online learning content. It provides a standardized way for e-learning content to be created, packaged, and delivered across different LMS platforms.
The key components of SCORM include:
Content Packaging: SCORM defines a specific format for packaging e-learning content. This packaging includes the actual course materials, such as multimedia files, assessments, and navigation structure, in a standardized way that can be understood by any SCORM-compliant LMS.
Run-Time Environment: SCORM specifies a set of rules for how the content should interact with the LMS during the learner's session. This includes communication protocols, data tracking, and navigation controls. The run-time environment ensures that the content and LMS can exchange information and track learner progress.
Data Model: SCORM provides a common data model that describes how learner interactions and progress are tracked and reported. This data model defines a set of data elements, such as completion status, scores, and time spent on activities, allowing the LMS to collect and report this information consistently.
By adhering to the SCORM standard, e-learning content developers can create content that can be easily shared, reused, and deployed on different SCORM-compliant LMS platforms. It allows organizations to mix and match content from different sources, integrate third-party content, and ensure compatibility between different e-learning systems.
It's worth noting that SCORM has been widely adopted in the e-learning industry, but it is not the only standard available. Other standards like xAPI (Experience API) and cmi5 have emerged to address new requirements and advancements in e-learning technology.
What is a SCORM-Compliant LMS?
A SCORM-compliant LMS (Learning Management System) refers to an LMS platform that conforms to the technical standards and specifications outlined by the SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) standard. A SCORM-compliant LMS is designed to effectively import, deliver, track, and report SCORM-compliant e-learning content.
Here are some key characteristics of a SCORM-compliant LMS:
Import and Launch SCORM Content: A SCORM-compliant LMS allows users to import SCORM packages created by content developers or authors. The LMS should support the proper packaging and launching of SCORM content, enabling learners to access and interact with the course materials.
Data Tracking and Reporting: A SCORM-compliant LMS is capable of tracking and recording learner interactions with SCORM content. It collects data such as completion status, quiz scores, time spent on activities, and other relevant information specified by the SCORM standard. The LMS should also provide reporting capabilities to generate reports based on the collected data.
Communication with SCORM Content: A SCORM-compliant LMS communicates with the SCORM content using the SCORM runtime environment. This involves the exchange of data and instructions between the LMS and the content package during a learner's session. The LMS must be able to interpret and respond to the communication requirements specified by the SCORM standard.
Compatibility and Interoperability: A SCORM-compliant LMS ensures compatibility with SCORM-compliant content packages developed by different vendors. It adheres to the technical specifications of the SCORM standard, allowing for seamless integration and interoperability between the LMS and SCORM content from various sources.
Content Packaging Support: A SCORM-compliant LMS understands and supports the SCORM content packaging format. It can properly handle the structure, organization, and delivery of SCORM content packages, making it possible to import and distribute SCORM courses without compatibility issues.
By being SCORM-compliant, an LMS platform enables organizations to leverage a wide range of SCORM content available in the e-learning market. It ensures that the content can be imported, delivered, and tracked within the LMS environment, providing a consistent and standardized learning experience for users.
How to Track and Report SCORM Data in Your LMS
To track and report SCORM data in your Learning Management System (LMS), you need to follow these steps:
Import SCORM Content
First, you need to import the SCORM-compliant content into your LMS. This usually involves uploading the SCORM package provided by the content developer or author. The import process may vary depending on your LMS, but typically there is an option to add or upload new content.
Configure SCORM Settings
Once the SCORM content is imported, you will need to configure the SCORM settings for that specific course or module. This is usually done within the LMS administration panel or course settings. You may be required to specify parameters such as completion criteria, passing score, or tracking options.
Launch SCORM Content
When learners access the course or module in your LMS, they will need to launch the SCORM content. This action establishes a connection between the LMS and the SCORM package, enabling data exchange.
Track Learner Interactions
As learners interact with the SCORM content, their progress and activity data are tracked and stored in the LMS. This can include information like time spent on each page, quiz scores, completion status, and other relevant data points defined by the SCORM standard.
Retrieve SCORM Data
To generate reports or view learner progress, you can retrieve the SCORM data from your LMS. Most modern LMS platforms have built-in reporting features that allow you to access and analyze the SCORM data collected. Depending on your LMS, you may be able to view data in real-time or export it for further analysis.
Generate Reports
Using the collected SCORM data, you can generate various types of reports, such as learner progress reports, quiz scores, completion rates, or overall course analytics. These reports provide insights into learner performance and help you evaluate the effectiveness of the SCORM content.
Customize Reporting
Some LMS platforms allow you to customize the reporting options to align with your specific requirements. You may be able to select specific data points to include in the reports, apply filters, or create custom dashboards for tracking SCORM data.
Analyze and Act
Once you have access to the SCORM reports, you can analyze the data to identify trends, knowledge gaps, or areas for improvement. This analysis can inform future course design, instructional strategies, or individual learner interventions to enhance the learning experience.
It's important to note that the exact steps and terminology may vary depending on the LMS platform you are using. Consult your LMS documentation or support resources for specific instructions on how to track and report SCORM data within your system.
About LMS Portals
At LMS Portals, we provide our clients and partners with a SaaS-based, multi-tenant learning management system that allows you to launch a dedicated training environment (a portal) for each of your unique audiences.
The system includes built-in, SCORM-compliant course authoring software that enables most anyone to build engaging courses quickly and easily.
We also offer a complete library of ready-made courses, covering most every aspect of corporate training and employee development.
If you choose to, you can create Learning Paths to deliver courses in a logical progression and add structure to your training program. The system also supports Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT) and provides tools for social learning.
Together, these features and make the LMS Portals platform the ideal SCORM-compliant solution for your corporate training program.
Contact us today to get started or visit our Partner Program pages