SCORM/AICC Standards Used In Web-Based Learning
Management Systems
Author: David Boggs

Learning management systems can be very complex. Viable
learning management systems are SCORM/AICC compliant. In this
article, I will provide a basic explanation of the SCORM/AICC
standard used in the marketplace today by many learning
management systems.

What is a learning management system?

As a refresher from a previous article, learning management
systems (LMSs) are web-based software application platforms
used to plan, implement, and assess learning processes related
to online and offline training administration and performance
management. LMSs allow an instructor to create and deliver
content, monitor learners' participation, and assess student
performance. LMSs also allow learners to use interactive
features such as threaded discussions, web conferencing,
discussion forums, and other methods of communication.

When learning management systems are SCORM/AICC compliant, what
does that mean?

SCORM stands for Sharable Content Object Reference Model, which
is a set of specifications that, when applied to course content,
produces small, reusable e-Learning objects. A result of the
Department of Defense's Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL)
initiative, SCORM-compliant courseware elements are easily
merged with other compliant elements to produce a highly
modular repository of training materials.

AICC standards apply to the development, delivery, and
evaluation of training courses that are delivered via
technology, i.e., more often than not, through learning
management systems. AICC stands for the Aviation Industry CBT
[Computer-Based Training] Committee (AICC), which is an
international association of technology-based training
professionals that develops training guidelines for the
aviation industry.

What is the Advance Distributed Learning (ADL) Initiative?

ADL is a government-sponsored organization that was started to
develop specifications and promote the adoption and spread of
e-Learning. They are the group responsible for developing the
ADL Shareable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM). SCORM
parameters combine elements of the Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers (IEEE), AICC, and Information Management
Standard (IMS) specifications into a consolidated document that
can be easily implemented. SCORM-compliant courseware elements
are easily merged with other compliant elements to produce a
highly modular repository of training materials that allows
suppliers and content developers to implement e-Learning
specifications in a consistent and reusable way.

In upcoming articles, we will discuss more about the SCORM/AICC
standard as it is related to your learning management systems
selection and other issues surrounding the SCORM/AICC standards
as associated to e-Learning.

More Information on the ADL and SCORM/AICC Standards

More information on the ADL and the SCORM/AICC standards can be
found at their web site http://www.adlnet.org.


About The Author: Dave Boggs is the founder and CEO of
SyberWorks, Inc http://www.syberworks.com/. He has been
involved with computer-based and web-based training for more
than twelve years. Before founding SyberWorks, Dave was the VP
of Sales and Business Development for Relational Courseware. He
holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Union College
in Schenectady, NY, and an MBA from the Kellogg School of
Management at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL.