What does SCORM mean?
Did you know that the global corporate e-learning market size will be worth $50 billion by 2026? E-learning is on the rise and an integral part of it is SCORM.
SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) is a standardized model for content distribution and reuse that enables synchronized delivery of learning materials to computer-based training (CBT) systems.
The SCORM technical specifications define the types of content files that interwork within a given environment while it also describes how they should be managed. This allows for easy integration of tools into the learning management system (LMS) and other content delivery platforms such as Blackboard or Moodle. There are also other standards like xapi, also known as an experience api (tin can api), cmi5 and AICC for advanced capabilities. But most learning platforms these days don’t support them anymore, hence SCORM is important.
In this article, we will have a detailed look on how SCORM comes into play with respect to e-learning.
With eloomi, organizations can easily import their SCORM files for use on eloomi’s LMS!
What is a SCORM-compliant LMS?
A SCORM-compliant LMS is an LMS (Learning Management System) that has been developed according to the specifications set forth by the SCORM (acronym for Shareable Content Object Reference Model). More specifically, it is a tool that allows you to create e-learning courses in varying formats such as PowerPoint presentations, videos and assessments.
The initial version of SCORM was developed and released in 2000 by the Department of Defense-sponsored Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL) Initiative. It was created to ensure that e-learning content can be integrated into a variety of LMSs. It has been adopted by many organizations and is used as the industry standard for e-learning content.
What is contained in a SCORM package?
There are some critical components of SCORM package that are very important to know once you’ve learned what a SCORM compliant LMS is. These are listed below:
XML Manifest File
An XML file is a metadata that gives information about the SCORM content and is used for validation and packaging. The manifest file can contain information about what content will be used in a specific SCORM package, where it came from, and how it will be used. The SCORM package will not work without the manifest file.
In addition, it can include metadata such as author information, copyright information or contact information.
Resource Files
The Resource Files feature of the SCORM package holds files that are to be published on the LMS as part of your course. There is no limit to the number of resources you can publish in a package; however, you should keep resource sizes reasonable.
When you publish a SCORM package to an LMS, the system will only download those files that it needs for the modules. This means that if your LMS does not require a file for its operation (e.g., image files), then it will not be included in the published package.
If you have a large file, consider splitting it into smaller chunks of zip files and publishing those as separate resources on the LMS so it doesn’t put too much strain on the platform.
Schema/Definition Files
The Schema/Definition Files feature is a way to distribute content or resources within a SCORM package and define how they will be used. Though the use of a definition file is optional, the Schema/Definition Files feature uses HTML formatting to indicate where fields should appear and which kind of data should be provided in particular fields.
This feature is implemented as a markup language called SCORM Definition Format (SDF). SDF is a way to describe the structure of content or resources within a SCORM package. It can also be used to define how the content will be used by an LMS.
How does SCORM work?
You’ve learned what SCORM is and what the key components are in a package. But if you’re wondering how SCORM actually works, you’re in the right place.
There are three existing versions of SCORM: 1.1 (the first version), SCORM 1.2, and SCORM 2004.
Read along as we take you through the steps that are common amongst the SCORMs and how it works in e-learning, to ensure compatibility.
Content Packaging
The content packaging step looks at how you can provide the learning objectives and content for your content package.
During this step, you should identify all the elements that will be packaged along with your technical learning platform. Commonly, packaged elements include text or graphics, animations or video files, sound files and multimedia presentations. You should also make sure that you have enough content to fill the entire package. The amount of content will depend on how long your technical platform is and how many different forms it takes.
For example, if you’re packaging a software application that provides users with two options for interacting with their computers—one for beginners and another for advanced users who need advanced distributed learning—you should include enough content to satisfy both audiences.
Run-time Communication
After the SCORM package is created, it needs to be uploaded to an LMS. Once the LMS does not have enough of the courseware to run through its own process, it utilizes a secure communication protocol called RTCC or Run-time Communication Coupling, ensuring cybersecurity. This allows the server and client components to talk with each other and keep all information in line between them.
As a result, the LMS is able to store the courseware and make it available for future use. This storage is necessary for the basic functionality of the website. It also allows you to track how many users have completed each activity in the course, as well as other important information like when they did so.
Sequencing
Sequencing is the process of breaking down a course into smaller components that are consecutively delivered to the learner. In SCORM, it includes steps such as sequencing lectures, quizzes, and learning activities in a way that makes sense to learners.
Because each learning activity has its own content file (i.e. video or audio), we can create sequenced learning paths for delivering them to learners at their own pace via Moodle or other LMSs.
Course authoring tools allow you to create SCORM files
An authoring tool like eloomi allows you to create SCORM files that are a standard for e-learning firms and publishers. These files enable you to embed interactive multimedia content anywhere online, from desktop computers to mobile devices, as mobile learning is one of the fastest growing markets in e-learning, with an annual growth of 23%.
For example, if you want to create an e-learning modules that can be embedded in a blog post or a website, you’ll need to use an authoring tool like eloomi. You can then create SCORM files that are compatible with any LMS system or SCORM-compliant learning management systems. You can also embed the content on any website using HTML5 or Flash.
Whether you’re using SCORM files or building from scratch, eloomi is your solution
It’s now easier than ever to create online learning materials as per the SCORM standard. A programmer was required in the past to develop the coding for a SCORM file. But with platforms like eloomi, you can now host learnings seamlessly without worrying about conformance. We offer a complete LMS that is compatible with SCORM compliance, and the course authoring tool is built right in along with templates.
With eloomi, you’re not just getting an LMS that can be used for SCORM compliant courses. You’re also getting a complete learning management system with features that will help you manage your entire organization. You can also use simulations to create your own situations and courses accordingly. Our LMS is built to cater to any need, whether you’re looking for an all-in-one solution or a more basic one.
Try eloomi for a smoother learning experience now.
-
Unlock the training you need to upskill,
hit compliance goals, and grow -
Engage employees with binge-worthy
content to ignite new motivation -
Stay ahead of changes with the
flexibility to adapt training on the go
- Unlock the training you need to upskill, hit compliance goals, and grow
- Engage employees with binge-worthy content to ignite new motivation
- Stay ahead of changes with the flexibility to adapt training on the go
