IMS Simple Sequencing

Definition

Quote "The IMS Simple Sequencing Specification defines a method for representing the intended behavior of an authored learning experience such that any learning technology system (LTS) can sequence discrete learning activities in a consistent way. The specification defines the required behaviors and functionality that conforming systems must implement. It incorporates rules that describe the branching or flow of instruction through content according to the outcomes of a learner's interactions with content. The Specification was released to the public in March 2003." ( [Content Packaging Specification] )

Simple sequencing implies a fairly classic behaviorist instructional design model.

However, one also can do less. Some critiques when confronted with e-learning talk about "spray and pray method", shovelware, or "page turning" and that reflect how sometimes e-learning is implemented. However, within a Simple Sequences compatible LMS you can implement designs that do respect some pedagogical standards, e.g. Mastery learning. DSchneider thinks that Simple Sequencing is not that simple and that producing pure shovelware is not an obligation :)

For a more powerful, but slightly more difficult alternative see IMS Learning Design.

The IMS Simple Sequencing Specification was developed to allow sequencing descriptions to be embedded within a IMS Content Packaging manifest file using the XML namespace extension set aside for IMS Simple Sequencing. In other words this means that as an author all you need is a tool that fully implements IMS Content Packaging + Simple sequencing extensions. Therefore, see also IMS Content Packaging.

1. IMS Simple Sequencing Information and Behavior Model - Version 1.0. This document describes the data structures that are used to provide interoperability between learning management systems which sequence learning activities;
2. IMS Simple Sequencing XML Binding - Version 1.0. This document describes how to encode the sequencing objects in XML and provides the corresponding XML schema;
3. IMS Simple Sequencing Best Practice and Implementation Guide - Version 1.0. This document provides an overview and describes how the IMS Simple Sequencing Information Model and XML Binding can be applied to specific types of interoperability scenarios.