E-learning has changed the way people learn and train. Whether in schools, businesses, or personal development, digital learning platforms help people gain knowledge in a structured way. But for online courses to work smoothly, they need standards that make sure the learning experience is tracked properly. Two of the most important standards in this space are SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) and xAPI (Experience API, also known as Tin Can API).

If you’re an educator or training manager, you might wonder: What is the difference between SCORM and xAPI? Which one is better? Do I need both?

This blog will break down everything you need to know about SCORM and xAPI in a simple, easy-to-understand way. We will explain how they work, how they compare, and how you can use them together to improve your learning programs.

What is SCORM?

SCORM stands for Sharable Content Object Reference Model. It is a set of technical standards used to create and share e-learning content. SCORM was introduced in the early 2000s and became the most widely used standard for online courses.

How SCORM Works

SCORM allows e-learning courses to be built in a way that they can run on different Learning Management Systems (LMS). An LMS is a software platform where learners access online courses. SCORM ensures that no matter which SCORM-compliant LMS you use, the course will work the same way.

Key Features of SCORM

• Standardized Content: SCORM allows courses to be shared across different LMS platforms without compatibility issues.
• Basic Tracking: SCORM tracks learner progress, course completion, time spent, and quiz scores.
• Sequencing and Navigation: SCORM allows content creators to set up the order in which learners must complete modules.
• Stores Data in an LMS: All learner activity is stored in the LMS, making reporting easy.

Limitations of SCORM

While SCORM has been useful for years, it has some major drawbacks:

What is xAPI?

xAPI, also known as Experience API or Tin Can API, is a newer learning standard that tracks a much wider range of learning experiences. It was created to overcome SCORM’s limitations and provide more flexibility in tracking and reporting.

How xAPI Works

xAPI collects learning data from various sources, not just an LMS. It stores this data in a Learning Record Store (LRS), which works independently from an LMS. xAPI tracks both online and offline learning activities, allowing for a more complete picture of a learner’s progress.

Key Features of xAPI

• Tracks All Learning Experiences: xAPI can track traditional e-learning, but it also records activities like:
  • Watching videos
  • Reading articles
  • Attending in-person training
  • Participating in group discussions
  • Completing simulations and VR-based training

• Works Without an LMS: Since xAPI data is stored in an LRS, you don’t need an LMS to track learning activities.
• Detailed Reporting: xAPI provides deep insights into learner behavior, engagement, and progress.
• Offline Learning Support: Learners can complete activities without an internet connection. Once they go online, the data syncs automatically.
• Mobile-Friendly: xAPI works well with mobile devices, allowing learners to access content anytime, anywhere.
• Supports Adaptive Learning: With the detailed data xAPI collects, educators can personalize learning experiences based on a learner’s progress and performance.

SCORM vs. xAPI: A Side-by-Side Comparison

How SCORM and xAPI Can Work Together

The good news is that SCORM and xAPI are not competitors, they can work together. Many LMS platforms support both, allowing organizations to transition from SCORM to xAPI without losing existing SCORM-based content.

Ways to Use SCORM and xAPI Together

1. Use SCORM for Basic Compliance Tracking: If you need to track course completion for compliance reasons, SCORM is still useful.
2. Use xAPI for Detailed Insights: xAPI can track deeper learning behaviors, such as engagement with videos, collaboration in forums, or participation in real-world training.
3. Integrate an LRS with Your LMS: If your LMS supports xAPI, you can connect an LRS to capture richer data.
4. Wrap SCORM Content in xAPI: Some tools allow you to wrap existing SCORM content in an xAPI wrapper, extending its tracking capabilities.

Why Educators Should Consider xAPI

SCORM has served e-learning well for many years, but as learning evolves, xAPI provides a more complete and flexible approach to tracking learner progress. Here’s why educators and training professionals should consider xAPI:

• More Accurate Learning Analytics: Instead of just knowing a learner completed a course, xAPI tells you how they interacted with the content.
• Tracks Learning Beyond the LMS: With xAPI, learning data is not limited to LMS activities, it includes videos, social learning, mobile apps, and more.
• Better Insights for Personalized Learning: xAPI enables adaptive learning, where content adjusts based on a learner’s needs.
• Works Across Multiple Platforms: Whether learners use desktops, mobile apps, or VR simulations, xAPI captures their progress.
• Future-Proof Learning Strategy: As learning becomes more interactive and technology-driven, xAPI ensures your learning programs remain effective.

Conclusion

SCORM and xAPI each have their strengths. SCORM is a well-established standard that ensures courses work across different LMS platforms, while xAPI provides deeper tracking and insights into learning experiences. By using them together, educators can create a powerful and flexible learning environment that tracks both traditional and modern learning activities.

For educators looking to improve learner engagement, personalize training, and get better analytics, transitioning to xAPI, or using it alongside SCORM, is the next step.