What is SCORM®

SCORM at a high-level is a collection of specifications and standards. It applies the current developments in training technology through use of a specific content model to ensure consistent implementation of training across the e-learning community. SCORM is built upon the work of the Aviation Industry Computer-Based Training (CBT) Committee (AICC), the IMS Global Learning Consortium, Inc., the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), the Alliance for Remote Instructional Authoring and Distribution Networks for Europe (ARIADNE) and others to create one unified "reference model" of interrelated technical specifications and guidelines that meet DoD high-level requirements for Web-based learning content and systems.

SCORM's Impact

Content providers, instructional designers and project managers are most interested in how SCORM will help them meet their project requirements. Content providers will quickly see how SCORM helps implement reusable learning objects. Instructional designers will identify reusable content and content sequencing strategies that can be successfully implemented with SCORM. Finally, Project Managers will realize development, time and cost savings when a strategic plan for implementing reusable content is identified and carried out.

SCORM’s Benefits

There are significant benefits to adopting SCORM:

• Interoperability: The ability to take instructional components developed in one location with one set of tools or platform and use them in another location with a different set of tools or platform.
• Accessibility: The ability to locate and access instructional components from one remote location and deliver them to several other locations.
• Reusability: The flexibility to incorporate instructional components in multiple applications and contexts.
• Durability: The ability to withstand technology evolution and changes without costly redesign, reconfiguration or recoding.
• Maintainability: The ability to withstand content evolution and changes without costly redesign, reconfiguration or recoding.
• Adaptability: The ability to tailor instruction to individual and organizational needs.

Instances where SCORM can be useful include using complex instructional behaviors that track learners, using an adaptive framework that is responsive to a learner's errors and using item tracking to determine the effectiveness of assessment items.

If the instruction is informational only, contains classified or proprietary information, quickly becomes obsolete or is of interest to only a small group of learners, then SCORM may not be as beneficial.

>> Introduction to SCORM and the ADL Initiative

>> SCORM in Practice

>> SCORM Status and Evolution

>> SCORM Conformance, Certification and Software Tools

>> SCORM and S1000D Integration