The xAPI specification is due to be approved as a standard under the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Learning Technology Standards Committee (LTSC) in 2023. Department of Defense (DoD) Instruction 1322.26 recommends the Experience Application Programming Interface (xAPI) data specification as the primary method for encoding and exchanging interoperable learner performance data across the DoD enterprise. xAPI statements are a form of JavaScript Object Notation (JSON), a common data format used across industry and government.

While xAPI can encode data about formal learning experiences, it also can support informal learning, such as on-the-job training, self-directed learning in work environments, or even student engagement in virtual classrooms. But because xAPI enables such broad data interoperability it presents a complex challenge in the design phase and in implementation. The creation of an xAPI data strategy helps establish the business rules for how xAPI is used across organizations to collect and interpret learner data from different digital learning systems.

This tutorial will focus on the tools, technologies, and processes for implementing xAPI to meet organization-wide objectives. While some attention will necessarily be placed on the instrumentation of learning activities with xAPI, the primary focus of this tutorial is lessons-learned on how to implement best practices so that learner data is Visible, Accessible, Understandable, Linked, Trustworthy, Interoperable, and Secure (VAULTIS).

Each organization within the DoD has its own unique challenges when implementing xAPI. Attendees of this tutorial will work through different use-cases to illustrate the value of an xAPI data strategy. Attendees will walk away with actionable knowledge about how to use xAPI profiles to continuously improve organizational insights into the wide range of digital learning systems.

Keywords
DATA, XAPI