Extreme Brevity in Action - ?? From Basic Metrics to Full Control: Why CMI-5 is the Tesla of E-Learning Tracking

Yesterday, I posted one of my longest articles ever. ?? If you read it, thank you! ?? If you didn’t, no worries—here’s the follow-up, using Extreme Brevity to show how less can be more. Consider this a demonstration of Extreme Brevity in action, a little preview of how spaced repetition learning works (for those who love to geek out on that!).

?? The Big Picture: Outdated Standards

E-learning has long struggled to measure its true impact. For years, we’ve been stuck using outdated standards like AICC and SCORM, much like relying on VHS tapes in the age of Netflix.

• AICC (1988): As old as Die Hard. Groundbreaking, but now, like John McClane, showing its age.
• SCORM (2000): Debuted the same year as Britney Spears' "Oops!... I Did It Again." Iconic, but not built for today's multi-device, data-driven world.

?? Enter CMI-5: The Future of E-Learning

CMI-5, launched in 2016, is like Pokémon GO—a game-changer that blends the best of SCORM and xAPI to create a flexible, modern standard for today’s learners.

• Bridges the gap between SCORM and xAPI.
• Modern architecture with RESTful web services.
• Content freedom—host anywhere, not just in the LMS.
• Mobile and offline friendly, unlike SCORM.
• Enhanced security and standardized reporting for richer data.

?? Why It Matters: Smarter Learning Data

SCORM is like getting movie theater attendance numbers without knowing if anyone stayed for the whole film. CMI-5 changes the game, offering granular data on how learners interact with content.

• Example: If your learners only spend three minutes on a seven-minute CEO video, you’ll know right away they’re tuning out.
• You can then hypothesize: Would shorter videos increase engagement? With CMI-5, you can track and test this, making data-driven improvements.

?? Starting Small: Testing Feasibility

You don’t need to overhaul everything to get started with CMI-5. Here’s how you can begin:

• Feasibility: Export one module using CMI-5 and compare the data to SCORM.
• Desirability: Present this data to leadership, showcasing how detailed metrics like video watch time help optimize content.
• Viability: Use real data to prove CMI-5’s value, making it easier to expand usage across your programs.

?? The Impact: Why Granular Data Matters

Even small tweaks—like switching from SCORM to CMI-5—can drastically improve how you design and deliver e-learning.

• Ask smarter questions about learner behavior.
• Make informed decisions on where to improve.
• Test hypotheses for better learner outcomes.

?? The Case for Action

Just as Die Hard and Britney had their time, SCORM's time has passed. CMI-5 is the future of e-learning, providing richer data, better outcomes, and more engaging learning experiences.

?? Pro Tip: Want to see how CMI-5 compares to SCORM in your LMS? Upload your CMI-5 module to SCORMCloud, a fully functional LMS, and explore the metrics. It’s a quick way to test the waters without needing full LMS support.

?? Down the Rabbit Hole: E-Learning Through the Decades

• PLATO (1960): Debuted the same year The Flintstones hit TV. Yabba dabba doo!
• TICCIT (1972): Launched alongside Pong—video games and e-learning, side by side.
• Blackboard (1997): The same year Titanic made waves and Hanson’s MMMBop topped the charts.
• Moodle (2002): The year Kelly Clarkson won American Idol.
• Adobe Captivate (2003): The year Finding Nemo swam into theaters.
• Articulate Studio (2006): The year High School Musical premiered and Twitter was born.
• Articulate Storyline (2012): The year Gangnam Style went viral.
• Articulate Rise (2016): Pokémon GO took over the world.

?? The Journey Continues

From PLATO in 1960 to Articulate Rise in 2016, e-learning has evolved alongside pop culture, adapting to new technologies and engaging learners in ways we never imagined.

With CMI-5, we’re ready to take the next step—optimizing learning experiences for today’s ever-changing landscape.

?? Call to Action: Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

View the full-sized article is available here ?? Deep Thoughts and Whatnots

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