xAPI vs. SCORM: Which is the Best One?

The xAPI vs. SCORM debate is a longstanding one. Both standards have been widely used to train thousands of employees and have proven their effectiveness over the years. Picking one over the other is a crucial decision that will impact how your course content is delivered, how learner progress is measured, and the extent to which trainees can make the most of their learning potential. 

While SCORM has been widely used for its reliability and familiarity, xAPI brings several innovative features that some organizations might prefer. In the end, both are communication protocols that dictate how learner activity is tracked—but the way they do it differs significantly. 

That is exactly what we'll address in this guide and help you decide which one fits your organization better.

What is SCORM?

The Sharable Content Object Reference Model, or SCORM, is popularly known as a framework and a set of technical standards for designing online learning products. Learning management systems (LMS) are created according to these specifications so that SCORM content integrates well with them. 

One can say that SCORM is the equivalent of a universal language for online courses because every conforming LMS can understand the courses designed with it. Once designed with SCORM, the courses can be distributed on LMS to help employees close the performance gap.  

Since SCORM is an international standard, the content designed according to its specifications can be shared on several learning platforms. These specific standards aim to maintain a consistent course framework across the industry. 

How Does SCORM Work? 

Basically, SCORM works by using the following two aspects:

1. Content Packaging or Content Aggregation Model 

All the content taught on the LMS will first be packaged in an imsmanifest document. It contains all the information needed by the LMS to launch the content and make it accessible to learners. You can think of it as an instruction manual for the LMS, stating the following details:

• What files are included (PDF, quizzes, videos)
• How the course is structured (module 1 → lesson 1 → quiz 1)
• Course metadata (like course name, description, author) 
• Launch instructions (which files to open first when the course starts)

The imsmanifest document is written in XML, where XML acts as a blueprint and defines how a course is organized:

• Physically: Location of the files
• Logically: The order of lessons, quizzes, and activities

2. Data Run-Time Exchange 

Data Run-Time Exchange (also known as Data Exchange or Run-Time Communication) is the process that allows the e-learning content to talk to the Learning Management System (LMS) while the course is running. 

When the learner is taking the course, it constantly sends and receives data to/from the LMS. This exchange helps the LMS track your progress, such as the modules finished, the number of quizzes answered, and the like.

This communication happens in two steps:

1. The content “locates” the LMS.
2. Once it has done that, SCORM and the LMS start communicating back and forth. 

What is xAPI? 

xAPI is the latest and most advanced e-learning standard developed by ADL Initiative in 2013. It is a versatile platform that works in multiple contexts and accurately captures learner experience. 

xAPI connects the LMS with various systems, such as social learning platforms, document management systems, and talent management portals, to track learning tasks, test scores, and much more. Since it is a new standard, xAPI only holds about 1.4% of the market share, which is expanding rapidly. 

How Does xAPI Work? 

xAPI tracks learning activities using statements, each of which describes something that a learner did. The structure of these statements follows a simple format known as API syntax. 

Every xAPI statement is structured like a simple sentence:

Noun (Actor) + Verb (Action) + Object (Activity)

Here is what each part means: 

• Noun (Actor): Who does the action? (John, Mary, I) (usually identified by User ID or email address). 
• Verb (Action): The action they perform (complete, read, or attempt).
• Object: What do they interact with? (quiz, help guide, and the like).

Examples 

1. I did this.

• Noun = I
• Verb = did
• Object = this

2. John completed health and safety training. 

• Noun = John (the learner)
• Verb = completed (the action)
• Object = health and safety training (the course)

The statements are sent to a system that stores learning data, such as an LMS, an LRS (Learning Record Store—a database designed specifically to store xAPI statements), or any other app or system supporting xAPI.

xAPI vs. SCORM: Key Differences 

While both SCORM and xAPI are designed to track and report learning activities, they differ significantly in terms of technical structure, capabilities, and flexibility. Understanding these differences is crucial for an organization to pick the right standard based on their training needs.

Following is a breakdown of the key differences between these two standards:

1. Tracking Differences 

SCORM is designed to track basic learning activities like course completion, time spent, and quiz scores within an LMS. In contrast, xAPI can track almost every single detail about the learning experience, whether it happens online, on mobile apps, in games, or even during real-time activities like workshops. 

2. Offline Learning Support 

One of SCORM's biggest limitations is that it requires an active internet connection because it relies on LMS communication in real time. xAPI resolves this by allowing offline learning; data is stored locally and synced to the Learning Record Store (LRS) once the connection is restored. 

3. Data Depth 

SCORM tracks limited data points, mainly related to course progress. xAPI, however, captures rich data, such as the time spent on specific pages, quiz interaction patterns, videos watched, and much more. 

4. Mobile Learning 

SCORM was created before the rise of mobile learning, so its support for mobile devices is minimal. On the other hand, xAPI is designed with modern learners in mind. It supports mobile devices, gamification in LMS, AR/VR environments, and more. Mobile learning has become more important for organizations since it boosts productivity by 43%. 

5. Implementation Complexity 

SCORM is relatively easy to implement for traditional e-learning courses within LMS environments. xAPI offers better capabilities but requires more technical setup, including API integrations and configuring a Learning Record Store (LRS).

xAPI vs. SCORM: A Tabular Comparison 

SCORM Benefits 

Let us talk about some of the benefits SCORM offers. 

1. Compatibility 

SCORM is compatible with most learning environments, as organizations have used it for over twenty years. If you are using an LMS, chances are it is SCORM-supported. 

2. Stability 

SCORM is no longer being developed, so there are no changes to it. Therefore, there is a very low chance it will have any new bugs. 

3. Ease of Use 

SCORM is super easy to use. All you need to do is download the package and upload it. No custom settings or security protocols are needed to configure it. 

4. Privacy Protection 

Since SCORM is a limited technical standard, it cannot send much data. As a result, there are very few privacy concerns. 

5. Easy Content Sharing 

Sharing SCORM with other admins is really easy. Instructors can simply upload the package they have received into their LMS, and learners will be able to access all the course materials. 

SCORM Drawbacks 

SCORM has some limitations that need to be discussed.

1. Score Syncing 

SCORM often lags in updating progress scores when a learner navigates away from the LMS page too quickly. Users need to reopen that particular page and perform an action (like answering a quiz), and SCORM will sync the scores after a few seconds. Dealing with this issue on a regular basis is time-consuming and frustrating. 

2. Individual Course Uploads 

SCORM requires you to upload each course file individually. For instance, if you are training your employees on an HVAC system and downloading its catalog, you must unzip the file and extract its contents first. Afterward, you upload individual packages, which can take hours. 

3. No More Development 

The latest SCORM update was in 2004—that is 21 years ago, a pretty long duration in the tech world. It is no longer being developed, so do not expect any updates or new features.

4. Buggy Videos on iOS 

Apple users on iOS can encounter buggy videos. That is because SCORM was developed when Adobe Flash was the dominant technology for creating interactive e-learning content. Flash worked well on desktop browsers, but had major compatibility issues with mobile devices. Developers started using HTML5 when Flash was phased out, but older SCORM content couldn't really gel with the new HTML5 standard. 

xAPI Benefits 

xAPI has many benefits, so let us cover some of the most crucial ones:

1. Rich Data Tracking  

Collecting high-quality data is crucial because poor-quality data costs organizations an average of $12.9 million yearly. xAPI allows you to capture data not just from the LMS but also from other sources—online or offline. As a result, you have a much deeper understanding of employee engagement with the training and whether they are on the right track.

Once you have this data, improving training for better outcomes is easier. It also provides better opportunities to design high-quality enterprise learning and development programs. 

2. Course Flexibility 

xAPI bypasses the limitations of traditional learning standards and helps L&D teams create engaging training courses. Since xAPI has excellent predictive capabilities, instructors can edit content in real time based on learner preferences. 

It is an excellent way to remove unwanted content while reinforcing the concepts learners need to master. Around 91% of employees want customized training content, so the flexibility provided by xAPI can make a meaningful difference to their learning. 

3. Multi-Device Support 

xAPI isn't bound to a single browser or device. The L&D team can design courses for computer-based training, smartphones, and tablets. It offers a much more convenient and flexible learning experience. 

4. Progress Tracking 

As we have already pointed out, xAPI can help you track learner progress in real time, and it has also been added to LRS. The admins and instructors completely control this process, knowing how learners are progressing at each point. 

5. Offline Support 

One of the best things about xAPI is that it doesn't require 24/7 internet connectivity. In fact, trainees can complete 100% of their training offline. Their progress is stored in the LRS whenever the internet connection is restored. 

xAPI Drawbacks 

The following are some prominent drawbacks of xAPI:

1. Advanced-Data Tracking Expertise 

xAPI lets you track loads of data, which is great. However, tracking it and making sense of it needs expertise. If you do not have someone in your organization who can do so, you might need to hire someone. 

2. Implementation Issues 

You need an LRS for data storage, as xAPI brings in a lot of data. Getting an LRS means extra costs and a drag on your finances. 

3. Integration Issues 

While quality LMS supports xAPI integrations, since it is the latest standard, some might not. The absence of native xAPI integrations means you cannot use this standard on your LMS.  

Make the Most of SCORM and xAPI With Coursebox 

As you have seen in our xAPI vs. SCORM discussion, both bring something useful to the table—although the latter is in the lead. Whether you use SCORM or xAPI, you need an LMS that supports both and lets you create courses to help trainees reach their full learning potential. That is where Coursebox shines with its advanced AI platform. 

The best part? It is really easy to integrate Coursebox with your content in an existing LMS through SCORM or xAPI. In addition, you will get highly capable AI features to enrich your course, such as an AI Quiz Generator, an AI Chatbot Trainer available 24/7, an AI Video Generator, and so much more.

If you want to provide a modern and effective learning experience to your employees, there is nothing better than Coursebox.

Sign up for free and let us help you transform the learning potential of your employees. 

FAQs

What is the use of xAPI? 

xAPI is a set of technical standards that lets organizations measure the learning experience and progress of trainees on the LMS as well as other platforms. The data gathered in this process provides valuable insights to the organization to improve training. 

Does xAPI perform better than SCORM?

Yes, xAPI is the more advanced standard and is generally more flexible and versatile. It also lets organizations capture more data than SCORM and works offline for course completion.

Is there a difference between LMS and SCORM? 

Yes, LMS and SCORM are different. LMS is a distributive platform where learners can access course materials on a web browser. On the other hand, SCORM is a technical standard that defines how eLearning content should be packaged and communicated with an LMS. 

Which system is replacing SCORM? 

xAPI is widely considered to be replacing SCORM. It is a newer standard that offers more flexibility in tracking learning experiences than traditional standards like SCORM.