SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) is a set of standard web-based technologies and protocols that allow application developers to share content and learner data between diverse learning management systems.

SCORM utilizes XML (eXtensible Markup Language) and JavaScript as standards to define a protocol for application developers wanting to create instruction that can be shared between learning systems utilizing different technologies and structures. Scorm includes two distinct areas: the Content Aggregation Model (CAM), and the Runtime Environment (RTE). Together these standards allow the exchange of Sharable Content Objects (SCO's).

Sharable Content Objects contain all contents for a set unit of instruction. This can include sound, images, text, video or any other electronic media. The SCO can also include data related to learner progress, position in the particular unit of instruction, or other data related to the SCO.

The Content aggregation model is a set of standards for defining the data and content in a SCO using XML (eXtensible Mark-up Language). The Content Aggregation Model also sets standards for packaging the SCO for electronic delivery between systems.

The Runtime Environment sets standards for utilizing the Shared Content Object in the target Learning Management System. The Runtime Protocol utilizes JavaScript, a standard web programming language to define a common interface for Shared Content Objects.

The Content Aggregation Model (CAM) consists of three components for defining and delivering SCO's: The Content Model, the Meta Data component, and specifications for Content Packaging.

The Content Model uses XML to define all content assets contained in the SCO and their relationship to other assets. The Content Model also defines the SCO's relationship to other units of instruction and the structure of the files contained in the Sharable Content Object.

The Meta Data component also utilizes XML to define nine different categories of data related to the SCO. This allows further defining of the SCO in relation to learner data and general system data.
The Content Packaging component is a standard format for packaging the final SCO for electronic transfer. SCORM uses a standard file format, Package Interchange File (PIF), to package the SCO. At the root of this package must reside an XML file named "imsmanifest.xml". This file describes the contents of the package and how to access and structure its contents in the target system.

The developers of SCORM have created a standard Application Programming Interface (API) that gives developers a common language for utilizing and developing Shared Learning Objects. The Programming Interface allows the Learning Management System (LMS) to initialize and import data from the Shared Content Object. The LMS is also able to set and retrieve data defined in the SCO allowing the LMS to track learner progress and recall a users position in the content.

SCORM was developed with the guidance of a large consortium of academic, technological and governmental organizations. SCORM is maintained by the The Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL) Initiative.

• Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL) Initiative
• SCORM: Flash Presentation from the ADL

David Lowman ，Lowman, D. (2004). Sharable Content Object Reference Model. In B. Hoffman (Ed.), Encyclopedia of Educational Technology.