What is e-Learning?
- e-learning is a term used to define the use of electronic media and information in education.
- e-learning is also known as multimedia learning, technology-enhanced learning (TEL), computer-based instruction (CBI), computer-based training (CBT), computer-assisted instruction or computer-aided instruction (CAI), internet-based training (IBT), web-based training (WBT) and a ton more.[1]
- E-learning can include numerous types of media such as text, audio, photos, animation, and videos, live class rooms and more. [1]
- E-learning doesn’t have to happen in a classroom setting and you can enjoy it remotely at your own pace
- It can also be asynchronous learning or instructor-led, synchronous learning.
- E-learning is convenient to distance learning, but it can also be used in conjunction with face-to-face teaching – also known as blended learning.
What is an LMS?
The focus of an LMS is to deliver online courses or training to learners, while managing students and keeping track of their progress and performance across all types of training activities. An LMS is not used to create course content.
LMS Functionality
Below are just some of details what an LMS can do to help you manage your training.
- Student Registration and Administration
- Training Event Management (i.e., scheduling, tracking, and WBT delivery)
- Curriculum and Certification Management
- Reporting
- Courseware Authoring
Most LMSs are Web-based, built using a variety of development platforms, like Java/J2EE, Microsoft .NET or PHP. They usually employ the use of a database like MySQL, Microsoft SQL Server or Oracle as back-end. Although most of the systems are commercially developed and have commercial software licenses there are several systems that have an open-source license.
What is SCORM?
Also known as “Sharable Content Object Reference Model” (SCORM). SCORM is a collection of standards and specifications for web-based e-learning. It defines communications between client side content and a host system called the run-time environment, which is commonly supported by a learning management system. SCORM also defines how content may be packaged into a transferable ZIP file called “Package Interchange Format”.
SCORM is a specification of the Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL) Initiative, which comes out of the Office of the United States Secretary of Defense, where it was first developed.
SCORM 2004 introduced a complex idea called sequencing, which is a set of rules that specifies the order in which a learner may experience content objects. In simple terms, they constrain a learner to a fixed set of paths through the training material, permit the learner to “bookmark” their progress when taking breaks, and assure the acceptability of test scores achieved by the learner. The standard uses XML, and it is based on the results of work done by AICC, IMS Global, IEEE, and Ariadne.[3]
SCORM versions
- Scorm 1.1
- Scorm 1.2
- Scorm 2004
What is Tin Can API?
Tin Can is the latest and greatest for tracking data outside the normal user experiences when taking a web-based course. In the past you could store data about what the student was taking, where they left off (bookmarking), the time it took them to do it (total time), collect their score (pass/fail), completion date/time and more.
Now with Tin Can, you can find out just about anything a student is doing, well of course if you are storing that information. You can now report single or multiple scores, multiple interactions, report offline learning, blended learning, and a ton more. It even supports mobile apps.
It is pretty new and there will be room for improvement with any new technology. Don’t fret though. If you have years of SCORM content tucked away it will NOT be useless and can be integrated into a Tin Can System.
More info here: http://tincanapi.com/scorm-vs-the-tin-can-api/
[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/E-learning
[2] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Learning_management_system
[3] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SCORM
