Difference Between Formal And Informal Learning

1574 Words7 Pages

Informal learning

According to Marsick & Watkins (2001), informal learning is considered to be learning that is predominantly noninstitutional and based on experience. The difference from formal learning lies in the greater degree of control over the course afforded to the learner, as well as it taking place in a location different from a classroom environment. Rarely does it take on a highly structured form and although at times it is deliberately encouraged by a particular individual or institution, it can just as easily occur beyond the influence of such catalysts, including in places that are not generally associated with learning.

They go on to explain that it is often intentional while at the same time lacking a strict structure and …show more content…

It goes beyond the very relevant argument that individuals use the Internet in their everyday life to learn and to gain knowledge, allowing them to learn about an almost infinite array of topics at any time and any place, often regardless of who they are or their background. As a result of this, the concept of informal learning has naturally expanded to consider those individuals (in this case, teachers) who make use of online spaces and sources of information to improve their pedagogical and professional knowledge.

As an aside, it is important to mention that the comparison made between formal and informal learning is not meant to be a confrontational one or a comparison that must result in an outright ‘victor.’ Rather, there are advantages and disadvantages to both styles of learning and in analysing both we should aim to gain benefits from both formal and informal learning (Callanan et al., 2011).

Callanan et al. (2011) also discussed five dimensions that can be used to measure informal learning. They are:
Whether there is a deliberate focus on teaching and …show more content…

Once they have entered a profession there are often a variety of opportunities for these teachers to maintain their professional development by engaging in different forms of lifelong learning. This lifelong learning cannot stand alone and therefore builds on an individual’s prior knowledge. Learning in general is a continuous process in which both the learner and the knowledge they are learning are constantly being reshaped by each other (Opfer & Pedder,

Open Document