FrontCore LMS

External vs Internal Learning Packages

Understanding the differences between external packages and FrontCore internal content, and why modern e-learning standards matter

Import Course Feature

Experimental

This feature is in an experimental phase which means it's still under development. For access contact our support at support@frontcore.com. You may experience problems and glitches.

FrontCore Internal vs External Learning Packages

FrontCore Internal Packages

Built-in content created directly within FrontCore using our native tools and editors. Includes text, video, quizzes, and interactive elements.

Advantages:

Native integration with seamless user experience
Comprehensive editing capabilities
Automatic responsive design for all devices
Instant updates and version control

External Learning Packages

Third-party content using e-learning standards like cmi5 and xAPI. Includes SCORM alternatives, simulations, and specialized training modules.

Advantages:

Access to specialized content from expert providers
Reusable across multiple LMS platforms
Scalable for large organizations and complex training

SCORM vs cmi5: Standards Comparison

Understanding the evolution of e-learning standards and why modern alternatives are superior

SCORM (Not Supported)

Outdated e-learning standard from 2004, limited to basic tracking and rigid content structure.

Limitations:

⚠File-based communication only (no web APIs)
⚠Limited to simple pass/fail tracking
⚠Security vulnerabilities and outdated protocols

cmi5 (Recommended)

Latest evolution combining the best of SCORM and xAPI for modern learning experiences.

Advantages:

✓Built on xAPI for rich tracking and analytics
✓Package-based deployment like SCORM but modern
✓Secure authentication and authorization
✓Support for complex, interactive content

Why FrontCore Does Not Support SCORM

Outdated Technology

SCORM was developed in 2004 and hasn't been significantly updated since 2013. It uses outdated web technologies that don't align with modern learning experiences.

Technical Limitations

SCORM relies on file-based communication and iframe embedding, which creates security risks and limits modern interactive content capabilities.

Modern Alternatives Available

cmi5 provides all the benefits of SCORM with modern security, better tracking, and support for contemporary learning experiences.

Best Practices

Do

✓ Test your content thoroughly before uploading to production
✓ Use descriptive titles and clear learning objectives
✓ Optimize media files for web delivery to ensure fast loading
✓ Include proper completion criteria and assessment scoring

Don't

✗ Upload packages with absolute file paths or external dependencies
✗ Include sensitive information or credentials in your content
✗ Create packages larger than 500MB without compression
✗ Use deprecated SCORM features that may not be supported

How External Content Works in FrontCore

Upload Process

Upload your CMI5 package as a ZIP file through the course settings
FrontCore automatically extracts and validates the content structure
The system configures secure hosting and generates launch parameters

Learner Experience

Seamless launch directly from the course page with single sign-on
Full-screen, immersive content experience without LMS interference
Automatic progress saving and resumption from where they left off
Completion status and scores automatically sync back to FrontCore

Instructor Benefits

Real-time visibility into learner progress and engagement
Detailed analytics and reporting on content performance
Easy content updates by simply uploading new package versions
No technical setup required - everything works out of the box

Supported Standards & Technical Implementation

Fully Supported Standards

cmi5

Full support for CMI5

Not Supported

SCORM 1.2 & 2004

Legacy standard not supported due to security and functionality limitations. Use cmi5 instead.

Consider migrating existing SCORM content to cmi5 for continued support and enhanced capabilities.

Ready to Use Modern E-Learning Standards?

Ready to start using external content in your courses? Create an account and begin uploading your first CMI5 packages today.

Start with cmi5 & xAPI Learn More About FrontCore

Need to migrate from SCORM? Contact our support team for assistance with converting your existing content.

FrontCore LMS

One platform, limitless opportunities to educate.

Upload Process

Upload your CMI5 package as a ZIP file through the course settings
FrontCore automatically extracts and validates the content structure
The system configures secure hosting and generates launch parameters

Learner Experience

Seamless launch directly from the course page with single sign-on
Full-screen, immersive content experience without LMS interference
Automatic progress saving and resumption from where they left off
Completion status and scores automatically sync back to FrontCore

Instructor Benefits

Real-time visibility into learner progress and engagement
Detailed analytics and reporting on content performance
Easy content updates by simply uploading new package versions
No technical setup required - everything works out of the box