Introduction
For two decades, SCORM has been the default standard for eLearning. It standardized packaging courses and tracking completions in LMSs. But as learning expanded beyond formal courses, xAPI emerged to track experiences in any context. Understanding the difference is vital for instructional designers and learning leaders.
What is SCORM?
SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) ensures interoperability between eLearning content and LMSs. It defines how courses are packaged and how completion, score, and status data are communicated back to the LMS. Versions 1.2 and 2004 are still widely used.
Limitations of SCORM
- Limited to LMS environments
- Tracks mainly completions and scores
- Poor support for mobile and offline learning
What is xAPI?
xAPI (Experience API), sometimes called Tin Can API, captures learning events from any context: mobile apps, simulations, performance systems, even social interactions. Data is stored in a Learning Record Store (LRS), not just an LMS.
Example Statements
xAPI records statements like: “Jane completed Safety Simulation Module,” or “David viewed Leadership Webinar.” This flexibility means virtually any learning activity can be tracked.
Benefits of xAPI
- Tracks informal learning and performance events
- Portable data across systems
- Rich analytics and dashboards
Use Cases
SCORM is still essential for compliance courses. xAPI is ideal for organizations wanting to capture deeper insights, such as correlating training with sales performance or safety incidents.
Conclusion
SCORM remains widely used, but xAPI is the future of learning data. Organizations should prepare to integrate both during their transition period.