Experience API (xAPI)
Definition
xAPI captures and transmits activity events between systems.
A specification published by ADL for capturing and exchanging activity events as statements between systems, typically via a Learning Record Store. Unlike SCORM, xAPI is not limited to packaged LMS courses.
Simply explained
A learning simulation can report which activity took place so that another system records it.
Why it matters in practice
The term supports companies in selecting technologies sensibly, anchoring them organizationally, and using them competently.
Example from business
A practical simulation sends an xAPI statement to a Learning Record Store; a SCORM package is not required for this.
Limits and pitfalls
- Portraying xAPI and SCORM as interchangeable, interpreting every tracking event as learning success, or collecting personal activity data without purpose, access protection, and retention policies.
Origin & history
xAPI 1.0 was released in 2013 as the successor to the Tin Can project. SCORM is a separate standard for packaged learning content and LMS runtime communication.
Use in mid-sized companies
- Possible example: A practical simulation sends an xAPI statement to a Learning Record Store; a SCORM package is not required for this.
Frequently asked questions
What does Experience API (xAPI) mean?
A specification published by ADL for capturing and exchanging activity events as statements between systems, typically via a Learning Record Store. Unlike SCORM, xAPI is not limited to packaged LMS courses. What mistakes should be avoided? Portraying xAPI and SCORM as interchangeable, interpreting every tracking event as learning success, or collecting personal activity data without purpose, access protection, and retention policies.
Sources
Source checked on 10.10.2026. Editorial application examples are hypothetical; no evidence of real customer results.
Editorially reviewed on: