Experience API, commonly known as xAPI or Tin Can API, is a standard for data collection about the wide range of experiences a person has both online and offline. As the succession to SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model), xAPI takes learning experiences to the next level, allowing for tracking of activities such as reading an article or playing a game. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
1. What is Experience API and why is it important?
Experience API (xAPI) is an e-learning software specification that allows learning content and learning systems to speak to each other in a manner that records and tracks all types of learning experiences. This capability is significant because it provides a detailed view of an individual’s learning journey across various platforms and experiences, which was not possible with previous standards.
2. How does xAPI differ from SCORM?
Unlike SCORM which was limited to tracking within the confines of an LMS, xAPI data can be collected from many different sources, including mobile apps, simulations, and even physical activities done outside any system. It also offers better mobile support, offline tracking, and more detailed reporting than what SCORM could handle.
3. What kind of data can xAPI track?
xAPI can track nearly any type of data related to learning experiences. This includes traditional e-learning courses, but extends to informal learning like watching a video or participating in group discussions. It can record data in the form of “actor—verb—object” statements (e.g., “John completed safety training”), and it also tracks results, duration, and much more.
4. Who uses Experience API?
Organizations that aim to monitor and improve their training programs benefit from xAPI. Educators, businesses, government agencies, and anyone interested in tracking detailed learning processes have found value in implementing Experience API.
5. How secure is data tracked by xAPI?
Data security is a crucial consideration when using any data standard like xAPI. The specification does not enforce strict security guidelines; however, it enables the use of different methods for securing data interchange such as OAuth and SSL/TLS encryption. Ultimately, ensuring the security of xAPI-authored data relies on how an organization implements these security practices.
Experience API marks an evolution in e-learning by extending the scope and accuracy of learning analytics. Its adoption continues to grow as organizations seek deeper insights into their learning environments for enhanced performance assessment and improvement planning.