Sharable Content Object Reference Model, or SCORM, is often called the de facto standard for eLearning. But despite its widespread use, its technical name and nature can be intimidating. Simply put, SCORM is the tool that sets the quality bar for any eLearning development project. It ensures that the content of an online training program is compatible with the Learning Management System (LMS) used to deliver it.

To explore this universal standard of eLearning, we’ll cover what SCORM is, why it’s important for content creation, and the best practices for creating SCORM-compliant content for your LMS. We’ll also dive into the benefits of compliance, the future of learning, and how to ensure your systems are ready.

Table of Contents:

What is SCORM?

SCORM is a technical specification used in eLearning products to standardize the creation and launch of different course materials. This specification is used when creating content with authoring tools and learning management systems (LMS), resulting in tools that are compatible with each other.

SCORM is a well-known technical standard to score an eLearning course and ensure that it can work with almost any online LMS to make it more accessible.

When you publish a course created with SCORM-compliant authoring tools and an LMS, a learner can launch it using their browser. The LMS then collects data that tracks performance, and the SCORM content guides the LMS on which data to receive. SCORM operates using two integral components:

  • Shareable Content Object (SCO): These are the individual pieces of your eLearning course. Once a SCORM package with these compliant elements is created, the content can be accessed from different LMS platforms and tools. They are known as an ‘asset’ in SCORM content.
  • Reference Model (RM): This part of SCORM refers to the set of rules and standards applied across LMS platforms to achieve consistency and compatibility. It’s a compilation of rules that different eLearning platforms follow.

The concept originated from the need to make eLearning courses more accessible. Before SCORM, courses were often specific to one LMS. If that LMS had issues, you could lose important learning content or have to create a new version. SCORM was created by the Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL) initiative of the U.S. Department of Defense and has become the most widely adopted standard in the eLearning industry.

Why is Being SCORM Compliant So Important?

With a basic understanding of SCORM’s structure, let’s look at its importance in bringing uniformity to the eLearning industry.

1. Pro-Consumer

SCORM is a pro-consumer initiative that helps eliminate chaos from the eLearning world. Since courses created using this standard are compliant with any LMS, it prevents the end-user from being stuck with a poorly performing platform. If you’re unhappy with your LMS performance, you can simply transfer the SCORM content zip folders into an alternative system. This also pushes LMS platforms to adhere to a certain standard of functionality.

2. Reliability & Interoperability

All quality authoring tools and LMS platforms today are SCORM-compliant. This fosters an ecosystem of interoperability, which means greater reliability for you. It enables learning platforms and course content to work together seamlessly. This allows you to use your multimedia content even if your organization chooses to change or upgrade its LMS.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

The SCORM standard has played a vital role in making eLearning cost-effective. Since course material is compliant with most LMSs, you don’t have to customize the training delivery for every system. This reusability saves significant time and money in the long run, especially for organizations that produce or use a lot of content. Implementation of a SCORM-compliant LMS can reduce integration costs by as much as 80%.

4. Better Content

SCORM has also been crucial in improving the overall quality of eLearning content. The best course creation tools are compatible with SCORM-compliant LMS platforms, creating a rich ecosystem for developing high-quality, engaging materials.

What Does it Mean to Be SCORM Compliant?

To be SCORM compliant, eLearning content must adhere to a set of technical standards that ensure interoperability and compatibility. These standards are assessed on three key criteria by the ADL:

  1. Content Aggregation (Packaging): SCORM-compliant content is packaged as a self-contained ZIP file that includes all necessary files and resources. This packaging, known as the Content Aggregation Model (CAM), ensures the content can be easily shared and imported into different LMS platforms. It also includes descriptive metadata (title, author, etc.) that LMS platforms use to manage and organize the content.
  2. Run-Time Environment (Communication): This standardizes the communication between the LMS and the content. It uses a standardized protocol that enables the content to “talk” to the LMS, allowing the system to track learner progress, provide feedback, and record assessments.
  3. Sequencing (Navigation): SCORM-compliant content includes a standardized navigation system that allows learners to move through the content logically. This gives content authors complete control to create rules about how learners navigate through different modules, track progress, and create paths based on performance.

The Different Versions of SCORM

There are several versions of SCORM, each with its own set of specifications.

  • SCORM 1.1: The first version, offering a basic set of specifications for content creation with limited tracking.
  • SCORM 1.2: This became the most widely used version. It tracks learner progress, records assessment scores, and enables bookmarking.
  • SCORM 2004 (all editions): A more advanced version that introduced sequencing and navigation, more detailed tracking, and the ability to track interactions with specific learning objects. The 4th Edition is the latest and includes improvements for sequencing and support for new content types like VR and AR.
  • SCORM 2.0: A more flexible and extensible version that supports modern learning content like social and mobile learning.

As of today, the most relevant and widely supported versions are SCORM 1.2 and SCORM 2004 4th Edition. SCORM 1.2 is a safe and reliable choice for most programs, while SCORM 2004 4th Edition is better for programs needing advanced tracking or using newer content types.

The Benefits of Using a SCORM Compliant LMS

It’s important to check for SCORM compliance when researching which LMS for employee training to use. A SCORM-compliant LMS is a learning management system that fully conforms to these rules and standards. Here are the key benefits:

  • Adaptability: It allows flexibility to create a variety of content for specific needs. Authors can mix and match Sharable Content Objects (SCOs) to create unique training programs.
  • Interoperability: As mentioned, you can easily switch your LMS without losing your content. This future-proofs your training materials.
  • Reusability: The plug-and-play functionality allows for the one-time creation of courses that can be distributed on many platforms. This is cost-effective and saves time.
  • Interactive Content: A SCORM-compliant LMS supports engaging content. You can add interactive elements like dynamic text, mini-quizzes, and clickable elements. It also facilitates gamification with point-scoring and leaderboards to encourage participation.
  • Ability to Provide User Data: SCORM allows you to easily track data within courses, including test results, final scores, time spent, pages viewed, and specific answers. This helps you see how learners interact with your content and improve training effectiveness.
  • Cost Efficiency: A SCORM-compliant LMS is a cost-free option for keeping components compatible. It saves money by boosting learning efficiency and reducing the time and costs of content delivery.
  • Easy Editing: SCORM facilitates easy adjustments to your learning content. Using authoring tools, you can quickly adjust content without affecting the stability of your training schemes.

What Types of Content Can Be SCORM Compliant?

Here are some examples of SCORM-compliant content:

  • Interactive eLearning Modules: These keep learners engaged with dynamic activities, simulations, drag-and-drop exercises, and clickable scenarios. SCORM standards allow for tracking these activities to assess learning.
  • Video-Based Learning: SCORM-packaged videos can track a learner’s progress, such as the percentage watched, playback time, and completion status.
  • Quizzes and Assessments: SCORM supports tracking scores, attempts, and completion rates. Self-paced assessments can also provide instant feedback.
  • Simulation-Based Training: Virtual training environments for real-world skills (like operating equipment) can be made SCORM-compliant. This allows for tracking every click, error, and time on task.
  • Microlearning Modules: These short, focused learning modules can be distributed via SCORM to track views, time spent, and completion.
  • Compliance Training: Pre-developed modules for compliance training often use SCORM to track completions, quiz results, and certification status, providing proof of compliance.

Things to Know Before Designing SCORM Content

Before you begin developing SCORM content, you should consider several factors:

  1. LMS Compatibility: Ensure your LMS is compatible with a SCORM version like SCORM 1.2 or SCORM 2004. A compatible LMS is necessary for the content to run correctly and track progress.
  2. Audience Analysis: Understand the needs, preferences, and technical abilities of your learners. Tailoring SCORM content to your audience leads to greater engagement.
  3. Content Interactivity: Plan to include interactive elements like quizzes, simulations, and videos to improve retention and keep users motivated.
  4. Content Versioning: Plan for future updates and maintenance. SCORM content should be easy to update without disrupting the LMS.
  5. Compliance with other eLearning Standards: If required, verify compliance with other standards beyond SCORM to ensure your content has a longer shelf life.

How to Create SCORM Compliant Content for Your LMS

To leverage this standard to the fullest, you need to know the best practices. Here are seven to follow when developing SCORM-compliant content.

1. Use the Right Authoring Tools

Working with a SCORM-compliant LMS isn’t enough if your authoring tools are not compatible. You might produce great content, but its reach is limited if it can’t be delivered via your preferred LMS. Picking the right authoring tools with SCORM compliance is a must. Tools like Adobe Captivate or Articulate Storyline allow you to create quizzes, track performance, and export your course into a SCORM-compliant zip file.

2. Be Clear About Your Training Needs

Consider your long-term training needs. While you might stick to local content like presentations for one project, using SCORM-compliant resources allows you to reach a wider audience and repurpose materials for future programs. Think about your eLearning goals and budget from the start.

3. Find the Ideal SCORM Package

SCORM is not a one-size-fits-all standard. There are multiple variations. Choose the package that is an ideal fit for your training needs and is compatible with your authoring tools and LMS to avoid software issues.

4. Customize Settings as Per Employee Preferences

Nearly all authoring tools let you customize settings like navigation icons, menu displays, and content file displays. It’s important to customize these settings with the desired training outcome and employee preferences in mind. This way, your training module can cater to the exact needs of your audience.

5. Test Before You Launch

Before you launch, test your program for SCORM compliance. Pack the entire course in your authoring tool and export it as a zip file to your LMS. Check if all elements—design, display, and navigation—are functioning as desired. To be thorough, test the content on different devices and get feedback from learners.

6. Monitor the Course Design and Performance

Even if the first test goes well, you must track the design’s effectiveness periodically. Is the layout consistent across devices? Can learners pause and play without issues? Keeping tabs on performance ensures effectiveness isn’t compromised.

7. Build a SCORM Manifest

To keep track of all elements in your course, create a detailed SCORM manifest. This is an XML file (imsmanifest.xml) inside your SCORM package that describes the course structure and contents. This metadata is the building block for your course and any simulations you may want to run.

How to Ensure Your LMS is SCORM Compliant

Here are some practical steps to make sure your LMS is SCORM compliant:

  1. Choose Appropriate Authoring Tools: The first step is picking and implementing the right authoring tools. A tool like Dictera can simplify the learning solution and eliminate technical hurdles.
  2. Optimize SCORM Packages: Check if your SCORM package is optimized for size, speed, and quality. Use compression or optimization tools to reduce file size and load time, which improves the user experience.
  3. Follow Best Practices: Use consistent naming conventions, relative paths for links, and standard formats for media. Test your course for compliance by packing it and exporting it to your LMS to check design and functionality.
  4. Upgrade LMS Software: If your LMS is outdated and doesn’t support the latest SCORM editions, it won’t work with modern courses. Upgrade your LMS to a version that supports the SCORM standards you need.
  5. Configure Tracking Parameters: One of the main features of a SCORM-compliant LMS is tracking learner data. Configure parameters like completion status, quiz scores, and time spent to ensure your LMS accurately reports on learner progress.
  6. Partner with Vendors: If you run into issues, contact your LMS vendor for support. They can help you troubleshoot and deploy your SCORM-compliant solutions effectively.

SCORM and the Future of Learning: Latest Trends

While SCORM remains a popular choice, it must adapt to the evolving landscape of technology and learner expectations. Here are some of the latest trends shaping the future of SCORM.

  • xAPI Integration: The Experience API (xAPI), also known as Tin Can API, is an emerging trend. Unlike SCORM, xAPI can record almost any user activity from any platform, offering deeper insights into learner behavior. It can track complex learning experiences that traditional SCORM software cannot.
  • Immersive Technologies: Technologies like Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality are becoming key components in eLearning. The latest SCORM versions are integrating these technologies to make lessons more engaging by transporting learners to immersive environments.
  • Gamification: The use of gaming elements like rewards, badges, and leaderboards is revolutionizing the eLearning space. SCORM software now incorporates these gamification features to make learning more fun and interactive.
  • Mobile-First Learning: eLearning is rapidly evolving to be mobile-first. This requires developing content that offers an exceptional mobile experience. SCORM is evolving to support microlearning, allowing for the creation of bite-sized learning objects that are easier for learners to consume on mobile devices.
  • Personalized Learning Experiences: The eLearning sector is embracing personalization. SCORM standards are catching up by enabling customized content delivery based on learner profiles, preferences, and performance, which enhances engagement and knowledge retention.

SCORM Cloud vs. Traditional LMS: Which is Better?

When choosing a platform, you might encounter SCORM Cloud and traditional Learning Management Systems.

SCORM Cloud is a robust tool for testing SCORM packages. It’s an excellent option for organizations of any size and supports various standards like SCORM, xAPI, AICC, and cmi5. It allows for direct delivery of courses and easy sharing of access. However, using it as a full-fledged LMS may require a developer, and it has storage limitations (often starting at 100MB).

A traditional SCORM-compliant LMS, on the other hand, operates locally on an organization’s servers. It is suitable for all your SCORM files and offers a wide range of features, including personalized training, powerful reporting, and large storage capacities. Unlike SCORM Cloud, a traditional LMS doesn’t typically require technical expertise to manage. For most organizations, a traditional LMS like Dictera offers a more comprehensive and user-friendly solution.

A Final Word

Online training courses with SCORM compliance offer greater accessibility and are easier to tweak and repurpose. It gives you the flexibility to use tools of your choice for content creation without compromising on quality or wasting resources. Anyone who’s embracing eLearning for the long haul must embrace SCORM as well.

Partner with Hurix Digital to create exceptional SCORM content for your LMS. With our advanced industry expertise and a passion for innovation, we ensure your eLearning content is engaging, accessible, and SCORM-compliant.

Ready to elevate your eLearning platform? Let’s discuss how we can help you achieve seamless content integration and learner success.