Industry standards serve two purposes:
- Interoperability standards - allow multiple systems to work together without needing custom-built interfaces.
- Quality standards - set a bar against which to evaluate organisations and their processes.
For inclusion in the list below, the standard must play some part in a learning technology ecosystem, such as the one illustrated.
List of available standards
| Standard | Also known as | Type | Purpose | Status | Last updated |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| xAPI | eXperience API | Data exchange | xAPI captures the data describing diverse learning experiences, enabling detailed tracking beyond traditional courses. | Active standard | 2023 |
| CSV | Comma Separated Variables | Data transmission | CSV files provide a way to transfer simple tabular data between systems, for example between operations and analytics | Information memo | 2005 |
| JSON | JavaScript Object Notation | Data transmission | JSON provide a way to transfer complex, multi-layerd data between systems. | Active standard | 2017 |
| XML | eXtensible Markup Language | Data transmission | XML files provide a way to transfer complex, related data between systems. | W3C recommendation (ie. Active standard) | 2008 |
| cmi5 | Learning content | cmi5 bridges LMSs and xAPI content, ensuring reliable course launches and basic completion/score tracking while leveraging xAPI's ability to collect detailed data. | ADL specification | 2016 | |
| LTI | Learning Tools Interoperability | Learning content | LTI provides a way for users of Learning Management Systems (LMS) or platforms to access remote tools and content. | IMS Specification (ie. Active standard) | 2019 |
| QTI | Question and Test Interoperability | Learning content | The Question & Test Interoperability® (QTI®) specification was created to facilitate the exchange and storage of assessment content. | IMS specification | 2022 |
| SCORM 1.2 | Shareable Content Object Reference Model 1.2 | Learning content | Allows packages of content to be used in delivery systems, and their usage tracked by the host system. | ADL specification | 2001 |
| SCORM 2004 | Shareable Content Object Reference Model 2004 | Learning content | Allows packages of content to be used in delivery systems, and detailed data about their usage tracked by the host system. | ADL specification | 2006 |
| ISO 17024 | General requirements for bodies operating certification of persons | Quality | ISO 17024 is an international standard for organizations that certify individuals' competence. It ensures certifications are fair and reliable. | Active standard | 2012 |
| ISO 27001 | Information security, cybersecurity and privacy protection — Information security management systems | Quality | ISO 27001 helps organizations manage information security risks systematically, protecting sensitive data through a comprehensive framework. | Active standard | 2022 |
| OpenID Connect | OIDC | Single-sign-on | OpenID Connect provides a way to verify a user's identity | Active standard | 2023 |
| Oauth 2 | Open Authorization | Single-sign-on | OAuth 2.0 is a security framework that lets you give a third-party app access to your information on another website without sharing your password. | Active standard | 2012 |
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