The Sharable Courseware Object Reference Model (SCORM) was released by the USA Advanced Distributed Learning Network (ADL) in January 2000.

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.

SCORM defines a Web-based learning 'Content Aggregation Model (CAM)' and 'Run-Time Environment' (RTE) for learning objects. In essence, the CAM defines how to aggregate, describe and sequence learning objects and the RTE defines the run-time communication and data to be tracked for learning objects.

SCORM is built upon the work of the Aviation Industry Computer-Based Training (CBT) Committee (AICC), the IMS Global Learning Consortium, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), the Alliance for Remote Instructional Authoring and Distribution Networks for Europe (ARIADNE) and others to create one unified 'reference model' of interrelated technical specifications and guidelines that meet USA Department of Defense (DoD) high-level requirements for Web-based learning content. Increasingly SCORM is being adopted by the elearning community worldwide.

Reference: SCORM 2004 3rd Edition at www.adlnet.gov/downloads/233.cfm