Ultimate Guide to SCORM eLearning Localization

SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) provides a common language that enables the interoperability, reuse, and portability of online learning content. 

What are the main components of SCORM?

SCORM consists of three components:

• Content packaging. It refers to how eLearning content is organized and delivered. 
• The run-time environment. This is the platform on which the eLearning content is delivered.
• Tracking. It refers to how a learner's progress is recorded and reported. 

SCORM versions

There have been several versions of SCORM released over the years.  Here is a summary of SCORM 2004, 4th edition.

Some of the key features of SCORM 2004 include:

• Support for multiple types of interactions (e.g., multiple choice, matching, etc.)
• Improved sequencing and navigation capabilities
• Enhanced tracking of learner progress
• Support for multimedia content (e.g., audio, video)

For more detailed information, I suggest visiting this interesting website about SCORM versions.

SCORM and Learning Management Systems

A Learning Management System (LMS) is a software platform used to deliver and manage eLearning content. It typically includes features such as:

• course authoring
• grading
• reporting

There are many different LMSs available, each with unique features and capabilities. Some popular LMSs include:

• Blackboard
• Canvas
• Moodle
• 360learning

If you're considering using SCORM with an LMS, you must ensure that the LMS you choose is SCORM-compliant.

Benefits of SCORM

SCORM has many benefits for both educators and learners.

Some of the key benefits include:

• Interoperability: SCORM enables eLearning content to be used on many learning systems and platforms, making it easier for educators to create and deliver digital course materials and for learners to access and interact with them.
• Reusability: SCORM allows eLearning content to be easily repurposed and reused in different contexts, saving time and resources for educators.
• Portability: SCORM enables learners to access and interact with eLearning content on any device or platform that is compatible with SCORM. Their progress will be tracked and recorded consistently across all of those systems.
• Improved effectiveness: By standardizing how content is delivered and tracked, SCORM enables educators to better understand how learners interact with their material and make informed decisions about improving it.

Tips for getting started with SCORM

• Create SCORM-compliant content
• Use a SCORM-compliant learning management system (LMS)
• Import the SCORM content into your LMS
• Deliver the SCORM content to learners
• Monitor and assess learner progress

Steps to localizing SCORM content

• Select content for translation: One of the benefits of SCORM is that it enables eLearning content to be easily reused and repurposed in different contexts. So, choose content that is suitable for international learners.
• Choose languages: Consider which languages and variants you need your content translated into (Portuguese Brazil v. Portuguese Portugal).
• Translate content: Partner with a professional translation provider that understands eLearning and can provide you with SCORM-compliant translated courseware
•  Create language-specific versions of the content: After translation, create different SCORM packages for each language.
• Modify the SCORM metadata: Change the "language" field in the metadata to reflect the language of the content. 
• Test the localized content: Ensure the course functions correctly, and the translations are accurate.

SCORM can facilitate the spread of eLearning by providing a standardized way to describe and deliver the content. Localizing your online learning course content into several key languages will encourage international learners to choose your course.

SimulTrans has proven experience translating multilingual eLearning course content, videos, including audio and subtitling from top eLearning providers.

Download our latest eLearning case study to learn how we helped a client update and convert their legacy course content into SCORM-compliant eLearning training.

Want to get started with the localization of your SCORM eLearning course? Reach out to to an eLearning localization service provider in a city near you.