Another Tuesday, another acronym! Today we’re going to be talking about SCORM!
SCORM stands for Sharable Content Object Reference Model and more or less dictates how e-learning content must be programmed in order to work with other e-learning software, such as Learning Content Management Systems (LCMS’) or Learning Management Systems (LMS’). The SCORM website provides a nice explanation of how SCORM let’s code and software play well with one another, so to speak.
As the name alludes to, SCORM creates ‘sharable’ content, which is essential when it comes to saving a business’ hard earned profits. Why? Well – before the days of SCORM, organizations may have contracted out training requirements to many different providers who all used their LMS of choice – creating a high volume of duplication, and likely less consistency. Now that SCORM exists, organizations can re-use training programs more easily than in the past.
Why is SCORM a sought after client requirement? Well. When clients dictate they want SCORM conformant or compliant e-learning product, they’re doing this to ensure that the developed e-learning product will function within any LMS they wish to launch the product within. Adhering to the SCORM standard will greatly help ensure your e-learning products are well-equipped for interoperability.
Right now, Tin Can API is foraging ahead to become the next generation of SCORM (let’s face it; SCORM is an old-timer; don’t get me wrong – a tried and true old-timer, but everyone needs to evolve), and will become the new standard within coming years – more on Tin Can API in another post.
Still curious about SCORM? There’s a lot to it, and I’ve definitely only skimmed the top of explaining it, but Learningpool provides a great infographic that should explain anything I’ve left out!
Leave a Reply