What to Check When a SCORM Course is Freezing
Applicable Product:
Peoplefluent Learning
Applicable Release:
All
Summary:
SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) courses are widely used in e-learning to deliver interactive training content. However, learners or administrators may sometimes experience issues such as the course freezing during playback. This can disrupt the learning experience and create frustration. If you encounter freezing in a SCORM course, here are key areas to check to diagnose and resolve the issue:
Detailed Information:
1. Browser Compatibility and Settings
- Supported Browsers: Verify the course is being accessed through a SCORM-compatible, updated browser like Chrome, Firefox, or Edge. Older or less common browsers may not fully support the content.
- Cache and Cookies: Clear the browser cache and cookies, as corrupted cached files can cause loading or freezing problems.
- Browser Extensions: Disable browser extensions or add-ons that might interfere with JavaScript or multimedia content.
- Hardware Acceleration: Sometimes, enabling or disabling hardware acceleration in browser settings can resolve playback issues.
2. SCORM Package Integrity
- Corrupted Files: Ensure the SCORM package is complete and not corrupted. Re-upload the package to your LMS if needed.
- Correct Version: Check that the SCORM version (e.g., SCORM 1.2 or SCORM 2004) is supported by your LMS and the course content.
- Manifest File: Verify the
imsmanifest.xml
file is properly configured and includes all necessary SCOs (Sharable Content Objects).
3. LMS Environment and Compatibility
- LMS Version: Make sure your LMS supports the SCORM version and features used in the course.
- Server Performance: Poor server response times or downtime can cause freezing. Check LMS server health and load.
- User Permissions: Confirm the user has appropriate permissions to access and interact with the SCORM course.
4. Course Content and Coding Issues
- JavaScript Errors: SCORM courses heavily rely on JavaScript. Use browser developer tools (Console tab) to detect errors or warnings.
- Media Files: Large or unsupported video/audio files may cause lag or freezing. Optimize media files for web delivery.
- Animations/Interactions: Complex animations or interactions may overload the browser, especially on older devices.
- External Dependencies: Check if the course depends on external resources or servers that may be down or slow.
5. Network and Connectivity
- Internet Speed: Slow or unstable internet connections can cause the course to freeze during loading or playback.
- Firewall/Proxy Restrictions: Some network security settings may block necessary resources or scripts.
- VPN Issues: VPNs sometimes interfere with content delivery, causing delays or freezes.
6. Device and Hardware Limitations
- Memory and CPU: Low memory or CPU on the user device can impact course performance.
- Mobile vs Desktop: Some SCORM courses are not fully optimized for mobile devices, which may cause freezing or incomplete loading.
Troubleshooting Steps Summary
- Test the course on different browsers and devices.
- Clear browser cache and disable interfering extensions.
- Re-upload or repackage the SCORM content.
- Check the LMS logs for errors or server issues.
- Use developer tools to identify JavaScript errors.
- Verify network connectivity and speed.
- Optimize media and content for better performance.
By systematically checking these factors, you can identify the root cause of SCORM course freezing and take steps to fix it, ensuring a smooth and engaging learning experience for users.