An accessible 'entry level' case study exploring the promise of modern learning data infrastructure in k-12 institutions. Foundational concepts of the Experience API (xAPI) expressed in a way that is accessible, non-technical, and action-oriented. This serves as the first in a series of focused case studies.
'Modern' schooling benefits include DIRECT access to new technology, legacy course reform, and much much more - it's never been easier to 'learn' in any capacity. At any level. Each method holds valuable data... what students engage with, where they struggle, and how they grow, so on. But here’s the problem: most of that data exists in silos, spread across different platforms, incapable of simply communicating with one another.
We propose there is a way to unify all that data into one coherent picture for each learner. Enter xAPI (Experience API) and various components of the Total Learning Architecture (TLA), two powerful ideas built on open standards that can help institutions do exactly that.
This post introduces how these tools can modernize learning data in K–12 schools from completion focused to competency driven modeling, making it easier to personalize learning, track progress in real time, and give educators the insights they need to support every student.
The Experience API (xAPI) at it's core is a method to capture and validate any learning activity from anywhere. It is an open data standard designed to capture and share learning experiences across different platforms. It provides a consistent structure for describing what a learner did, and defines how that information can be recorded and exchanged electronically between systems. Granting institutions the ability to access and track detailed actions across multiple solutions programmatically.
"Communication is key to any relationship - our relationship with learning has been at risk in large by a language barrier in our programs. We strongly believe (x)API is a key to unlocking that language barrier."
Each activity generates an xAPI statement that is sent to a Learning Record Store (LRS). A central system that captures, validates, and organizes these activities.
You don’t have to overhaul your whole tech stack to try xAPI. Many popular learning platforms are adding xAPI support (e.g., Moodle, H5P, or some Google integrations).
Here’s what’s typically involved:
• Choose an LRS: Open-source or commercial options exist. Some are cloud-based.
• Enable xAPI in your tools: This might be built-in or require some configuration.
• Map identities: Use anonymized IDs so the same student is recognized across systems.
• Pilot it: Start with one classroom, grade level, or subject area.
xAPI and the Total Learning Architecture should remain accessible to all and efforts made to lower the barrier of understanding to implement in existing systems with more ease. These tools hold real promise for K–12 education, especially for schools looking to break down data silos, personalize learning, and empower teachers with better insights.
By starting small, focusing on real teaching needs, and embracing open standards, your school could be on the path to truly connected learning. How exciting is that?
