openLRS vs SQL LRS

openLRS is a free, open-source Learning Record Store for storing and retrieving learning records generated by learning activities. It supports the Experience API, also called xAPI or Tin Can API. The project includes an Express backend that stores and retrieves records and a React frontend that displays them. Learning platforms create entries by sending xAPI data and session metadata to the /lrs endpoint with a POST request. Requests require an X-Signature header calculated from a shared secret, plus a custom consumer and context ID. openLRS was built for openHPI and the KI Campus H5P Tool and can be adapted for other platforms. Its Moodle plugin captures xAPI events from H5P content and sends them to an external openLRS for analysis. Self-hosting requires MongoDB, Node modules, database configuration, and a server running the Express backend. The repository is available under the MIT License, but GitHub lists it as archived and read-only from February 20, 2026.

SQL LRS is a self-hosted Learning Record Store for xAPI statements, attachments, and documents. It supports SQLite, Postgres, MariaDB, and MySQL. Built-in conditional logic can evaluate incoming activity and create internal xAPI statements for validated outcomes. Its SQL data can connect to tools such as Power BI, Tableau, Looker, Apache Superset, and AI stacks that work with structured databases. Authentication options include OpenID and API credentials with keys, secrets, and scopes. The software is available through GitHub, DockerHub, and Platform One’s Iron Bank, but customers host it themselves. It is free under the Apache 2.0 license and may be used in commercial projects; implementation and support services are quoted separately. The maker says it conforms to IEEE 9274.1.1 and that Iron Bank containers have Certification to Field for Platform One IL2 and IL4 environments. SQL LRS is an LRS, not an LMS or content store: it does not produce learning data or host learning content. Described uses include collecting activity from LMS, AR/VR/XR, and simulation systems and exchanging learning data with business and AI systems.