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Fortune's Path PodcastAuthor: Tom Noser, Ted Noser
The Fortune's Path Podcast explores the role of virtue in business to help you get more of what you want by helping others get what they want. See more at www.fortunespath.com Language: en Genres: Business, Entrepreneurship, Kids & Family, Parenting Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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David Ells — xAPI and How to create a tech standard
Episode 59
Tuesday, 27 August, 2024
[00:00:00] - IntroductionTom: Setting up today's discussion points: establishing new standards in software, using tech for effective learning, and the possible conflict between educational system administrators and students.Guest: David Ells, Managing Director of Open LMS, an open-source learning management system provider.Overview of David's background in online learning with over 15 years of experience, including work with the Department of Defense on the Experience API (XAPI).[00:01:09] - Early Career and Entry into Learning TechDavid: Shares his accidental entry into the learning tech field after earning a master's degree from MTSU.Initial job at Rustici Software leading to a career in educational technology.Discusses the meaningful impact of developing educational tools and the transformative power of education.[00:03:53] - Importance of Experiential Learning in HiringTom: Probes the significance of certifications versus experience in hiring.David: Emphasizes experience and practical application of knowledge as primary hiring factors over certifications.[00:05:35] - Introduction to XAPITom: Attempts to describe XAPI.David: Explains XAPI's basics—data format and communication protocol for learning events, allowing detailed tracking of learning activities across various platforms and contexts.[00:07:37] - XAPI's Vision and DevelopmentTom: Shares initial skepticism about XAPI but appreciates its potential.David: Discusses the broader vision of XAPI, including data mobility and creating verifiable credentials for lifelong learning records.Insights on corporate and academic applications and interoperability with different forms of learning content.[00:10:52] - Industry Adoption and Impact of StandardsDavid: Describes efforts to establish XAPI, parallels with existing industry standards, and the critical role of adoption.Historical context of SCORM and the unique challenges and opportunities it presented.[00:15:00] - Rustici Software’s Contribution to XAPITom: Questions about Rustici’s role in developing SCORM and transitioning to XAPI.David: Details Rustici’s research and industry contributions leading to XAPI’s development and its collaborative approach.[00:21:00] - Launching and Promoting XAPIDavid: Discusses the practical and marketing challenges in launching a new standard and gaining adoption.Realizations and reflections on what might have been done differently for better adoption rates.[00:28:10] - XAPI’s Broader Applications and LimitationsTom: Explores XAPI’s potential beyond learning contexts.David: Outlines XAPI’s flexibility, acknowledging both its strengths and weaknesses, and practical applications in data-driven contexts.[00:38:08] - Managing Data with WatershedTom: Discusses the potential overwhelming amount of data XAPI could collect.David: Describes the importance of filtering data to extract meaningful insights and the role of tools like Watershed in this process.[00:43:42] - Transition to Open LMSDavid: Talks about his move to Open LMS and the shift in focus to higher education.Differences between corporate and academic markets and the commonalities in learning management needs.[00:45:03] - Comparing Corporate and Higher Education LMS NeedsDavid: Discusses the evolving needs of universities to prepare students for careers and the corporate focus on skills-based training.[00:50:14] - Conflict Between Learners and AdministratorsTom: Expresses views on the inherent conflict between learners and administrators.David: Compares this to IT departments versus end-users, discussing the potential synergy with modern SaaS and cloud-based solutions.[00:58:16] - Future of EdTech and Learning SystemsDavid: Envisions a future where learning is skills-based and highly personalized, breaking the traditional degree format.Discusses the potential for more granular and modular learning experiences.[01:00:10] - Collaborations Between Academia and IndustryTom: Asks about formalizing partnerships between universities and industries.David: Discusses the potential for these partnerships, acknowledging existing informal pipelines and the mutual benefits.[01:02:17] - Personal Goals and Vision for Open LMSDavid: Shares his aspirations for the growth and success of Open LMS.Emphasizes the adaptability of Open LMS and its potential leadership in emerging educational trends.[01:02:54] - ConclusionTom: Thanks David Ells for the conversation.David: Expresses enjoyment and appreciation for the dialogue and Tom's writing.
