Virtual Community Projects Laboratory


The Virtual Learning Project : A SCORM-Compliant LMS

Note: On-Hold. This project has been placed on hold, pending decisions in DCU relating to an open-source learning environment.

Researcher - David Molloy

There are a large number of Learning Management Systems (LMS) available on the market to use in online teaching.  Some of the more popular examples of these are WebCT, BlackBoard and TopClass each of which have their own individual styles in providing similar facilities.  While functionally these systems are hard to criticise, there are a number of important issues where they tend to suffer:
  • Lack of standardisation
  • Very poor portability if end-users wish to change LMS at a later date
  • Inherent and possibly spiralling cost to the end-user
  • Lack of full customisation to existing Information Management Systems in Universities etc.
  • Inability to add your own features to a 'standard' package
The Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) defines a Web-based learning "Content Aggregation Model" and "Run-Time Environment" for learning objects.  The SCORM is a collection of specifications adapted from multiple sources to provide a comprehensive suite of e-learning capabilities that enable interoperability, accessibility and reusability of Web-based learning content.  SCORM applies current technology developments to a specific content model by producing recommendations for consistant implementations by the vendor community.  It is built upon the work of the AICC, IMS, IEEE, ARIADNE and others to create a unified "reference model" of interrelated technical specifications and guidelines designed to meet the American Department of Defense high-level requirements for Web-based learning content. 

The purpose of this project is to write a SCORM compliant LMS that can be used to replace traditional LMS systems.  Additionally the LMS will integrate together with the Y-Box and the Virtual Community Project System to provide a comprehensive eLearning and Management solution.  

This project began in May 2002. For more information on the Virtual Learning Project please contact David Molloy through Please click here to email to this address   or at +353 1 7008426.

Back to the Main Page


VCP Login  |  Virtual Communities Group  |  RINCE  |  School of Electronic Engineering