SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) is the most widely recognized eLearning standard for creating and deploying online training content. Two of the most commonly used versions of SCORM are SCORM 1.2 and SCORM 2004. While both are designed to ensure compatibility between learning content and learning management systems (LMS), they differ significantly in their features and capabilities. Below, we’ll compare the two versions to help you understand the key differences and determine which version may be best suited to your needs in Bridge.
Key Differences Between SCORM 1.2 and SCORM 2004
| SCORM 1.2 | SCORM 2004 | |
|---|---|---|
| Is widely adopted | Yes | Yes |
| Normalized reporting | Yes | Yes |
| Has the easiest “Big 4” (Content Packaging, Run-Time Environment, Sequencing & Data Exchange) |
Yes |
No |
| Rollup determined by the course | No | Yes |
| Rollup determined by the LMS | Yes | No |
| Robust interactions model | No | Yes |
| Longer suspend data* | No | Yes |
| Sequencing | No | Yes |
1. Data Tracking
- SCORM 1.2: Basic data tracking capabilities, including standard metrics such as completion status, pass/fail, and a single score. This version is limited when it comes to detailed assessments or tracking interactions.
- SCORM 2004: More robust data tracking, allowing for detailed interaction reports such as quiz answers, multiple scores, and attempts made by the learner. Ideal for courses with complex assessments.
2. Sequencing and Navigation
- SCORM 1.2: Lacks advanced sequencing options, offering only linear navigation (next/previous). It does not allow for adaptive learning paths based on learner actions or performance.
- SCORM 2004: Introduces sequencing and navigation controls, enabling course creators to set rules for how learners move through content. This allows for adaptive learning paths, such as redirecting learners to remedial sections based on their quiz performance.
3. Error Handling and Reporting
- SCORM 1.2: Error reporting is basic and can be vague, making troubleshooting more challenging for course developers.
- SCORM 2004: Improved error handling with more detailed error messages, making it easier to identify and resolve issues.
4. Completion and Success Criteria
- SCORM 1.2: Completion and success criteria are often tied together, meaning that finishing a course also indicates whether the learner passed or failed.
- SCORM 2004: Separates completion from success, allowing a learner to complete the course without necessarily passing, providing more nuanced reporting.
5. Launch Behavior
- SCORM 1.2: No standardized launch behavior, meaning different LMSs may handle course launching in varied ways, leading to inconsistent user experiences.
- SCORM 2004: Introduces standardized launch behavior, offering a more consistent and predictable user experience across different LMS's.
6. Rollup and Reporting
- SCORM 1.2: The LMS is responsible for rolling up activity data (completion, scores, etc.) and determining how to display it in reports.
- SCORM 2004: The course itself controls how data is rolled up and reported, providing more flexibility and consistency in how learner performance is recorded.
7. Suspend Data (Bookmarking and Progress Saving)
- SCORM 1.2: Limited to 4096 characters of suspend data, meaning larger courses may struggle to save learner progress effectively.
- SCORM 2004: Expands suspend data capacity to 64000 characters, allowing for more extensive bookmarking and saving of interactions, ideal for longer or more complex courses.
8. Robust Interactions Model
- SCORM 1.2: Limited interaction tracking, focusing primarily on basic course completion and scoring.
- SCORM 2004: Supports a more detailed interactions model, including objectives, quiz responses, and specific learner inputs, making it a better choice for courses with high interactivity.
9. Content Reusability
- SCORM 1.2: Basic support for reusing content across different LMSs, but with limited flexibility due to the lack of sequencing and advanced controls.
- SCORM 2004: Enhances content reusability by allowing for flexible, adaptive learning paths and more sophisticated interactions, making it suitable for more complex learning environments.
10. Adoption Rates
- SCORM 1.2: Widely adopted and remains the most commonly supported SCORM version across LMS platforms.
- SCORM 2004: While it offers more advanced features, not all LMSs fully support its capabilities, especially its complex sequencing and navigation rules. However, it’s increasingly supported by modern LMS's.
Summary of Differences
- SCORM 1.2 is a simpler, more widely supported standard, ideal for basic course delivery and reporting. It offers essential features like tracking completion and scores but lacks advanced interaction capabilities.
- SCORM 2004 adds several improvements, including detailed tracking, adaptive sequencing, improved error handling, and greater flexibility in reporting and learner navigation. It is better suited for courses that require more sophisticated interactions, detailed feedback, or adaptive learning paths.
Which One Should You Choose for Bridge?
- If your eLearning content is straightforward and you need broad compatibility across older LMSs, SCORM 1.2 may suffice.
- If you want more control over the learner experience, need to track detailed interactions, or require adaptive learning paths, SCORM 2004 is the better option.
Ultimately, the choice between SCORM 1.2 and SCORM 2004 depends on the complexity of your course content and the capabilities of your LMS. Supporting both versions will allow you to reach the widest audience while maximizing content flexibility.
If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to support@bridgeapp.com for further assistance