Whether you are new to the elearning field or a seasoned professional, you have likely encountered the term SCORM. For this article, we collaborated with the experts at VITECO to explore what SCORM is, why it has been crucial for distance learning, and the methods used today to track learner progress.
If you need help converting your courses into the SCORM format, our specialists are ready to assist you. Keep reading to discover modern, cost-effective alternatives that might better suit your needs.
Let’s dive in!
Table of contents
What is SCORM?
SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) is a set of technical standards for elearning content. Developed in the early 2000s by the ADL (Advanced Distributed Learning) initiative, SCORM ensures that learning content is compatible with LMS platforms (Learning Management Systems), enabling activity tracking and system interoperability.
SCORM remains widely used in corporate elearning, where continuous training and development are vital for staying competitive.
Why SCORM matters in elearning [3 key benefits]
SCORM revolutionized digital learning through the following advantages:
- universal compatibility: SCORM content can run on any LMS that supports the standard, eliminating integration issues;
- accurate tracking: organizations can monitor learners’ progress, completion rates, scores, and time spent on courses;
- reusability: SCORM modules are designed for updates and modifications, making them versatile and cost-effective.
For companies in regulated industries, SCORM provides the detailed reporting required for audits and compliance checks.
Versions of SCORM
Over the years, SCORM has evolved to meet the growing demands of the market:
- SCORM 1.1: The initial version, with limited features and compatibility;
- SCORM 1.2: Introduced in 2001, this stable version gained widespread adoption and remains popular for its simplicity;
- SCORM 2004: Brought advanced features, such as non-linear learning paths and detailed tracking capabilities, ideal for more complex elearning scenarios.
Each version has contributed to making SCORM the go-to standard for digital learning.
How to convert files to SCORM
If your LMS requires SCORM-formatted content, knowing how to convert your educational resources is essential. While the process might seem daunting, the right tools or professional assistance can simplify it significantly.
Steps to convert files into SCORM:
1. Choose a SCORM authoring tool
Use software like Articulate, Adobe Captivate, or iSpring Suite. These authoring tools can create or convert educational resources like PDFs, PPTs, or videos into SCORM-compliant files.
2. Import your content
Upload your educational resources (presentations, quizzes, videos, etc.) into the selected authoring tool.
3. Configure SCORM settings
Set up tracking parameters, such as completion rates, scores, and viewing times.
4. Export to SCORM format
Once configured, export the content to the desired SCORM version (e.g., SCORM 1.2 or SCORM 2004).
5. Upload the SCORM package to your LMS
Verify the package functions properly and tracks user progress effectively.
6. Too complicated? Rely on professionals!
If you’d rather not handle the conversion yourself, experts like VITECO can provide fast, professional SCORM conversion services, ensuring compatibility with any LMS.
Is SCORM still essential?
While SCORM remains a vital standard, modern LMS have made it less indispensable. Innovative tools, such as VITECO’s e-Logos, can track various file types without the need for SCORM conversion, saving time and resources.
SCORM’s limitations
Despite its significance, SCORM has certain drawbacks, including:
- mandatory conversion: all content must be converted to SCORM, incurring additional time and costs;
- rigidity: SCORM modules don’t always align with modern content personalization requirements;
- limited multimedia support: SCORM is less adept at managing complex multimedia files compared to newer technologies.
Alternatives to SCORM: e-Logos and ULOI
Today, more flexible and advanced tools are available for tracking learner progress. Two standout options are e-Logos and ULOI, which overcome SCORM’s traditional limitations.
e-Logos: a platform for tracking any file
VITECO’s e-Logos simplifies elearning management by removing the need for SCORM conversion.
You can upload and track:
- PDFs and text documents;
- PowerPoint presentations (.ppt);
- videos and multimedia files;
- or create quizzes for your courses natively with the tools integrated into the platform.
e-Logos automatically monitors each uploaded file, providing detailed insights into user interaction, including viewing time, completion rates, and individual progress.
This makes it ideal for companies and schools seeking a modern, high-performing alternative to SCORM-dependent platforms like Moodle.
ULOI: A tool for tracking any app, website, or web app
ULOI (Universal Learning Object Integrator), developed by HT Apps, integrates and tracks a wide range of learning objects on various LMS platforms.
Key benefits of ULOI:
- greater flexibility: tracks apps, web apps, interactive portals, and games;
- universal compatibility: works seamlessly with major LMS platforms;
- time optimization: simplifies technical complexities and reduces operational times, eliminating the need for SCORM conversion.
ULOI is perfect for organizations seeking advanced solutions to customize their elearning content tracking.
Contact us to optimize your elearning
We’re here to help you choose the best elearning solution for your needs. Whether it’s SCORM conversion or implementing our e-Logos platform, you’ll save time and resources while delivering outstanding training experiences.
How to contact VITECO:
- WhatsApp us;
- Fill out our contact form below.
Request your personalized consultation today to streamline your online training!