Experience API:
xAPI or the Experience API by ADL (Advanced Distributed Learning Initiative) is a new learning technology that makes it possible to collect a wide range of data and experiences from eLearning modules and store it online. Data is captured in a consistent format which consists of a simple vocabulary.
SCORM has been the standard for online education for a long time, but SCORM has limitations like low vocabulary and grammar. This means that the data which SCORM can handle is limited.
This data which is saved in SCORM is limited and can be only accessed when the eLearning module is uploaded on an LMS. Project Tin Can, which later turned into xAPI, is the future of learning technology. With xAPI, data can be saved without the need for an LMS.
Uses of xAPI:
xAPI data is in the form of statements. These statements use nouns and verbs and can be used to store almost any type of learner activity. xAPI statements can be sent from mobile phones, simulations, YouTube, or LinkedIn learning.
xAPI can account for all types of learning like online quizzes, books, forums, or classrooms but our focus will be online learning.
How does xAPI work?
An example xAPI statement can be “John answered question one”. In this example, there is an actor, verb, and object.
- John is the actor
- Answered is the verb and
- Question one is the object.
Now, this statement needs to go somewhere to be stored. This is where a Learning Management System or LRS is used.
Learning Management System:
An LRS is a data storing program that receives, saves, and returns xAPI statements. The good thing about storing xAPI data on LRS is that a constant internet connection is not needed, occasional internet access will do the job. LRS enables tracking of a wide variety of learning experiences. Some examples can be attempting, viewing, passing, or failing.
xAPI opens many new opportunities for transforming learning activities. It is used by many large companies across the U.S., mainly medical training facilities, flight schools, and military organizations.
