Most VLEs support the Shareable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) as a standard, but there are no commonly used standards that define how the learner's performance within a course can be transferred from one VLE to another.
There are also standards for sharing content. such as those defined by the IMS Global Consortium. Local bodies such as in the schools sector in the UK the DCSF via Becta have additionall defined a learning platform "conformance framework" to encourage interoperability.
Virtual Learning Environments are not limited only to students and learners in university level studies. There are many virtual learning environments for students in grades k-12. These systems are also particularly suited for the needs of independent educational programs, charter schools and home-based education.
Assessing Virtual Learning Environments
In 2003, Walker developed a survey instrument for assessing the psychosocial learning environment of virtual learning environments. In order to construct and develop the virtual learning environment as a viable means of education, educators must have a tool to use when researching the effectiveness of the virtual learning. This assessment tool, known as the Distance Education Learning Environment Survey (DELES) is accessible to students anywhere. The survey instrument examines the following aspects: Instructor Support, Student Interaction and Collaboration, Personal Relevance, Authentic Learning, Active Learning, and Student Autonomy.
The research of Harnish and Reeves focuses on the overall system of the virtual learning environment. This systematic research is based on the criteria of training, implementation, system usage, communication, and support.