The Advanced Distributed Learning Co-Laboratory has announced a version 1.2 release of the Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM). The SCORM reference model with its XML bindings "defines a Web-based learning 'content aggregation model' and a 'runtime environment' for learning objects, providing a bridge from general emerging technologies to commercial implementations. At its simplest, SCORM is a model that references a set of interrelated technical specifications and guidelines designed to meet the US Department of Defense's high level requirements for web-based learning content, supporting content reusability, accessibility, durability, and interoperability. The goal is to leverage existing practices, promote the use of technology-based learning, and provide a sound economic basis for investment. SCORM originated as a program for information technologies designed to modernize education and training, and to provide cooperation between government, academia, and business through developmenet of e-learning standardization." The model has been developed in cooperation with several e-learning partners, including ARIADNE (Alliance of Remote Instructional Authoring and Distribution Networks for Europe), the Aviation Industry Computer-Based Training [CBT] Committee, the IMS Global Learning Consortium, and the IEEE Learning Technology Standards Committee. The version 1.2 release of CSORM "adds the ability to package instructional material and meta-data for import and export. These XML-based specifications provide a crucial link between learning content repositories and learning management systems. The new SCORM version incorporates the IMS Global Learning Consortium's Content Packaging Specification and expands it to include additional course structure capabilities."

From the announcement: "ADL's SCORM is a collection of specifications adapted from multiple sources to provide a comprehensive suite of e-learning capabilities that enable interoperability, accessibility and reuse of web-based learning content. First released in January 2000, the ADL Initiative continues to update and expand the scope of the specifications in cooperation with industry, government and academic participants. Further additions to SCORM are planned for early next year [2001]."