Making Sense of xAPI
You probably have data on course enrollments and completion and pass rates on course tests, but what about data on how learners are applying their new knowledge? The Experience API (xAPI) can help you collect and track more complete data on your learning programs and their results. An application programming interface (API) is a means for transmitting data across software systems. xAPI allows you to document and track learning experiences.
In this issue of TD at Work,"Making Sense of xAPI," Megan Torrance and Rob Houck offer an overview of xAPI and provide guidance to help you get started making xAPI part of your learning management system.
This issue includes:
- definitions of essential terms
- sample activity statements for xAPI
- examples of types of data to collect with xAPI
- discussion of how xAPI relates to action mapping, the Kirkpatrick model, and the 70-20-10 model
- an xAPI project planning guide.
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![Megan Torrance]()
Full ProfileMegan Torrance is the chief energy officer of TorranceLearning, an e-learning design and development firm outside of Ann Arbor, Michigan. She has spent over two decades knee-deep in projects involving change management, instructional design, consulting, and systems deployment. Megan thrives on design excellence and elegant project management. And coffee. She and the TorranceLearning team have developed the LLAMA project management approach, blending Agile with excellent instructional design techniques. TorranceLearning projects have won IELA and Brandon Hall awards, and the 2014 xAPI Hyperdrive contest at DevLearn.
Publications include “A Quick Guide to LLAMA: Agile Project Management for Learning,” and “Agile and LLAMA for ISD Project Management,” a TD at Work. Megan has written for TD magazine several times, including the article, “What Is xAPI?” in the February 2016 issue.
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![Rob Houck]()
Full ProfileRob Houck is currently the head of technology innovation with UL Compliance to Performance. He has provided strategic direction for learning and talent management software, managed software development and support of technology products and services, and overseen software implementation for more than 3.2 million users in 73 organizations. He has worked in technology for more than 25 years and has consulting experience ranging from small business to Fortune 100 corporate clients.
