xAPI

Term from Productivity Training industry explained for recruiters

xAPI (also known as Experience API or Tin Can API) is a system that helps track and measure how people learn and perform in training activities. Think of it as a standardized way to collect information about learning experiences, whether they happen in traditional online courses, mobile apps, or real-world activities. It's like a universal language that different training tools can use to talk to each other and share information about what learners are doing. This helps companies better understand how their employees are learning and developing skills.

Examples in Resumes

Implemented xAPI tracking across company training programs to measure learning effectiveness

Developed Experience API compatible learning modules for corporate training

Integrated Tin Can API reporting features into existing learning management system

Typical job title: "Learning Technology Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Learning Experience Designer eLearning Developer Learning Systems Administrator Training Technology Specialist Learning Solutions Developer Digital Learning Designer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement xAPI across multiple learning platforms in a large organization?

Expected Answer: Should discuss planning for data collection needs, selecting appropriate Learning Record Store (LRS), ensuring consistent tracking across different platforms, and creating meaningful reports for stakeholders.

Q: How do you use xAPI data to improve training effectiveness?

Expected Answer: Should explain how to analyze learning data, identify patterns in learner behavior, and make data-driven decisions to enhance training programs based on actual usage and performance metrics.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key components of an xAPI statement?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain in simple terms that xAPI statements track who did what (actor, verb, object) and under what circumstances, giving examples relevant to learning activities.

Q: How do you ensure data quality when implementing xAPI tracking?

Expected Answer: Should discuss methods for consistent data collection, proper statement formatting, and validation of tracking implementation across learning activities.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between SCORM and xAPI?

Expected Answer: Should explain that SCORM is older and limited to tracking online courses, while xAPI can track any kind of learning experience, including mobile learning and real-world activities.

Q: What is a Learning Record Store (LRS)?

Expected Answer: Should describe an LRS as a database that stores learning records from various sources, similar to how a warehouse stores products from different suppliers.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of xAPI statements and structure
  • Implementation of simple tracking in learning modules
  • Basic report generation from LRS
  • Understanding of learning data collection principles

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Custom xAPI implementation in various learning platforms
  • Advanced data collection and reporting
  • Integration with multiple learning systems
  • Troubleshooting tracking issues

Senior (5+ years)

  • Strategic learning analytics implementation
  • Enterprise-level xAPI architecture design
  • Advanced learning data analysis
  • Cross-platform learning ecosystem development

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of basic learning measurement principles
  • Lack of experience with learning management systems
  • Unable to explain how to track different types of learning activities
  • No knowledge of data privacy considerations in learning analytics