SCORM is the standard for digital learning content—and a practical way to integrate courses into learning platforms such as Moodle, Docebo, or TalentLMS. However, when it comes to sensitive topics such as data protection, labor law, or compliance, it is important to ensure that your work is not only technically sound but also legally compliant.

In this article, you will learn how to design a legally compliant SCORM course with Lessonator—step by step.

What does “legally compliant” mean in e-learning?

A SCORM course is legally compliant if it…

  • correctly and fully informed about obligations
  • accessible (as far as possible)
  • is processed in compliance with data protection regulations
  • Rights of use for images, videos, & texts observed
  • Participation and learning progress documented (e.g., for examination purposes or verification)

Digital training courses must meet the same legal requirements as face-to-face courses—just without the flipchart.

– Dr. Sabine Reimann, Lawyer specializing in IT and media law

1. Present content correctly & comprehensibly

This applies particularly to legally relevant topics such as occupational safety, data protection, or compliance:

  • Formulate knowledge clearly and comprehensibly
  • Keine veralteten Rechtslagen darstellen
  • Make duties and consequences clear
  • Cite sources, e.g., “in accordance with Section 12 of the ArbSchG.”

Lessonator tip: Use text modules, checklists, and quiz questions for review.

2. Respect copyrights

2. Respect copyrights

  • Images & Icons
  • Audio and video files
  • Quotes & external texts

Only use content with a free license (e.g., CC0) or with verifiable permission. Alternatively, use your own media or Lessonator’s integrated image selection.

3. DSGVO & Tracking

SCORM courses store the following data in the LMS, among other things:

  • Name of the user(s)
  • Processing time
  • Quiz results
  • Status “completed/not completed”

This is permitted—provided that learners are informed and you provide appropriate data protection information in the course or in the LMS.

Tip: Use a DSGVO-compliant platform (Lessonator hosts on servers in Germany) and clarify in the privacy policy which course data is used and how.

4. Documentation for testing and verification requirements

In certain areas (e.g., compliance, occupational safety, medicine, data protection), it is important to be able to prove who learned what and when.

With SCORM, you can do the following in your LMS:

  • Document learning time
  • Export participation reports
  • Save test results
  • Assign certificates automatically

Lessonator supports SCORM 1.2 & 2004 export – for LMS integration including tracking.

5. Optional: Accessibility

If your training is used in the public sector (e.g., universities, administration), digital accessibility requirements may apply in some cases.

This means, among other things:

  • clear navigation
  • Alternative text for images
  • Videos with subtitles
  • no exclusively color-coded information

Lessonator supports accessible design, e.g., through clear structure, large buttons, and text alternatives for images.

SCORM courses are technically practical—and legally demanding. If you plan your content carefully, work in compliance with copyright law, and ensure that your processing is DSGVO-compliant, you will be on the safe side.

With Lessonator, you can create not only interactive learning content, but also legally compliant e-learning experiences.