L&D & LMS Glossary

Corporate training, in plain English.

Clear, jargon-free definitions of the L&D and LMS terms you'll meet when choosing training software — from SCORM to skills gaps.

LMS (Learning Management System) Software to create, deliver, assign and track training. Read → LXP (Learning Experience Platform) A learner-first platform focused on discovery and personalised content. Read → SCORM The most common standard for packaging e-learning courses. Read → xAPI (Experience API / Tin Can) A newer standard that tracks learning experiences anywhere. Read → cmi5 A profile that brings xAPI tracking into the structured LMS world. Read → LRS (Learning Record Store) A database that stores xAPI learning records. Read → ILT (Instructor-Led Training) Traditional training delivered by a live instructor. Read → VILT (Virtual Instructor-Led Training) Live, instructor-led training delivered online. Read → E-Learning Self-paced learning delivered digitally. Read → Blended Learning A mix of self-paced e-learning and live (in-person or virtual) sessions. Read → Microlearning Short, focused lessons that fit into a few minutes. Read → Mobile Learning Training people can do on a phone or tablet. Read → Social Learning Learning from peers — discussion, sharing and collaboration. Read → Gamification Using game elements (points, badges, leaderboards) to boost engagement. Read → Learning Path A structured sequence of courses toward a goal or role. Read → Employee Onboarding Getting new hires productive with a structured start. Read → Compliance Training Mandatory training required by law, regulation or policy. Read → Certification Formal proof that someone has met a standard. Read → CPD (Continuing Professional Development) Ongoing learning to keep professional skills current. Read → Upskilling Building new skills for a current or evolving role. Read → Reskilling Training people for a different role. Read → Skills Gap The difference between skills you have and skills you need. Read → Competency A defined skill or behaviour needed to perform a role. Read → 360-Degree Feedback Feedback gathered from managers, peers, reports and self. Read → Coaching ROI The measurable return from a coaching program. Read → Kirkpatrick Model A four-level model for evaluating training effectiveness. Read → Learning Analytics Using learning data to improve training and prove impact. Read → SSO (Single Sign-On) Log in once with your company account to access many apps. Read → SAML A common standard that powers enterprise SSO. Read → SCIM A standard for automatically provisioning user accounts. Read → White-Label LMS A learning platform run fully under your own brand. Read →

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