The GBLxAPI project started as an internal project at Dig-iT! Games where they were investigating a new way to update how they collected, analyzed and visualized learning outcomes from their educational games products. Their existing custom database solutions required costly maintenance and other third-party tools were not meeting new requirement expectations.  After a search of potential solutions, they adopted the new Experience API (xAPI) specification as a potential approach that could meet their requirements and open new possibilities for the broader K-12 community. They started initial prototyping on the potential use of xAPI in their game-based learning (GBL) products starting in late 2015.

In 2016, Dig-iT! Games proposed a research project to the National Science Foundation (NSF) to explore creating a standard for the GBL community using xAPI as a foundation after prototyping its potential use in game-based learning products.  The proposal was peer reviewed and an SBIR grant was awarded to Dig-iT! Games to develop a vocabulary and prototype for a potential standard for data collection, analysis and reporting for public good.  This research was completed in 2017 and a new vocabulary, Unity game engine API, and architecture for pilot prototypes was developed and tested.  GBLxAPI statements were created using the initial vocabulary from Unity and JavaScript engine games.  Data was captured in a learning record store and further analysis and dashboard reporting was performed in an enterprise class business analytics engine.

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In 2018, the GBLxAPI initiative was announced as a community of practice (COP) for K-12 educational applications within the xAPI community with a new logo as well.  The GBLxAPI project is delivering a controlled vocabulary and and a profile for the community as well as additional tools.