Formal Learning and Informal Learning

Learning can occur outside of school and even unrelated to school work. Quite often it is this learning type that tends to remain etched in the memory of the child for a long time. It is therefore important to have a perfect blend of formal and informal learning.

Jay Cross, the originator of the word e-learning has coined this type of learning as informal. Formal learning includes the hierarchically structured school system that runs from primary school through the university and organized school-like programs created in business for technical and professional training. Informal learning occurs when individuals acquire attitudes, values, skills and knowledge from daily experience and the influences and resources in the environment, from family and neighbors, from work and play, from the market place, the library and even mass media.

Informal Learning accounts for over 75% of the learning taking place in organizations today and often this most valuable learning takes place serendipitously, by random chance.

In order to understand the difference between formal learning and informal learning, it is valuable to differentiate between that which is learned intentionally and that which is learned by accident.

The greatest difference between formal learning and informal learning boils down to whether it was intentional or unexpected learning. Intentional learning is the process whereby an individual aims to learn something and goes about achieving that objective. Unexpected learning happens when, in everyday activities, an individual learns something they had not intended or expected.

How can you maintain a balance between formal and informal learning in your classroom?

From Professional Learning Board’s online continuing education course for teachers: Accommodating All Learners