Hello, dear e-learning beginner! If you are taking your first steps into the exciting world of e-learning and feel a bit confused about technical terms like "SCORM," then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will explain what SCORM is, why it is essential, and whether it is something you should spend time on.
SCORM stands for "Sharable Content Object Reference Model" (which doesn't help us much, right?). In a nutshell, SCORM is a standard that helps e-learning content play nicely with different e-learning platforms, Learning Management Systems (LMSs). [Read more about SCORM on the official website].
Think of SCORM as a PDF file: just like a PDF can contain everything from a Word document to an advanced CAD drawing, SCORM is also a format that ensures you can view e-learning content on many different platforms. And like with a PDF, you cannot edit a SCORM file directly.
When should you worry about SCORM?
If you are going to create e-learning, it is essential to know about SCORM and decide whether it is relevant to you. SCORM is especially crucial if you want a system that can manage and report students' progress and performance. This is done through a Learning Management System (LMS), which is an online platform for managing, delivering, and tracking e-learning courses.
How to create SCORM content
To create SCORM-compatible content, you need a "scorm compliant authoring tool", such as Articulate Storyline. SCORM authoring tools help you design and develop e-learning courses and export them as SCORM files, which can then be imported and run in an LMS.
When should you not worry about SCORM?
If your e-learning does not require tracking and reporting of user progress, or if you want to create simple instructional videos, SCORM may not be necessary for you. There are other e-learning formats and technologies that might better suit your needs.
LMS and SCORM: An essential combination
A Learning Management System (LMS) is a platform used to manage, distribute, and report e-learning. SCORM is an important standard for ensuring your e-learning content works seamlessly in different LMSs. When choosing an LMS, it is essential to ensure it supports SCORM so you can get the most out of your e-learning.
Beware of 'dirty tricks' from LMS providers
Some LMS providers say their platform can run SCORM content. But be aware that content developed in the platform's content module may not necessarily be exported as SCORM. This means you could be locked into that particular LMS provider. Therefore, make sure to investigate whether the LMS supports exporting SCORM content before choosing a provider.
What does SCORM do for you?
SCORM allows you to track and report students' progress and performance. For example, you can see what a student has answered to a question in a test and whether they have completed a module. If you do not need to store this type of information, you may not need SCORM.
Authoring tool and LMS: Two sides of the same coin
When creating e-learning, it is essential to distinguish between the authoring tool used to create the content and the LMS used to manage, distribute, and report e-learning. It is a good idea to keep the two separate, as it is the content that takes the longest to create and has the most value. If you build content directly in an LMS and later decide to switch platforms, it may be difficult to move your content.
Conclusion
SCORM is an essential standard in e-learning that helps ensure your content works seamlessly in different LMSs. If you are going to create e-learning, it is essential to know about SCORM and decide whether it is relevant to you. If you don't need to track and report students' progress, SCORM may not be necessary for your project. However, remember to think ahead and consider whether it may become relevant in the future.
Do you have questions? Get in touch with us.
Do you need help developing SCORM e-learning, want to learn how to create e-learning yourself, or are you looking for an LMS that won't break the bank?
We typically develop SCORM e-learning using tools like Articulate Storyline and Articulate Rise, but we can also create custom SCORM solutions and expand the possibilities of what you can achieve with SCORM.
You can also learn more: SCORM: The Ultimate Guide for Non-Technicians