Formal and Informal Learning - Essay Example

This approach is s shift of perception pertinent to informal learning. This is maintained a base on the notion that informal learning is generally assumed to be at the other end of the learning spectrum (Cofer, 1997). In fact, in chapter 1, it has been mentioned that learning is considered as a spectrum in which formal and informal learning comprise the continuum. What is different between these two ideas is that in treating informal learning as falling under the ‘other end of the spectrum, the notion of the divide between the two approaches is presupposed (Cofer, 1997). On the other hand, when formal and informal learning are viewed as forming a continuum, the notion of a divide is dropped and the image of fluidity in learning is adopted (Cook and Smith, 2004).  As such, this idea emphasizes the need to further clarify the concepts of formal and informal learning to gain a better understanding of these two approaches.

            In this regard, the chapter will be having the following structure. The first part will be dealing with the meta-theories of learning. This will be briefly presented to show that the discourse on informal learning I anchored on fundamental learning theories. In effect, showing that the theories are derived not out from a vacuum, but from continuing effort in clarifying learning in general and informal learning in particular.  The second section will be tackling the various definitions that have been forwarded to clarify the idea. This will help gain an idea as to how informal learning and formal learning are differentiated in terms of definition. The third part will be about the models of informal learning. This provides the theoretical framework that has been given by the scholars as the notion of informal learning is elucidated. The fourth section will be the presentation of some empirical studies regarding the validity of the theoretical claims of informal learning.  The fifth part will tackle some of the observed in the literature and finally, the last section is the summary of the chapter.

2.1. The Meta-Theories of Learning

            Learning has been defined in several ways. Some view it as the process that is taken to increase one’s capacity for action (Kim, 1993). Concurring, Argyis (1993) claims that learning is not simply having new insights or knowledge, but learning should lead to effective actions that detect and counter errors. On the other hand, others have defined it as the acquisition of new skills, knowledge, and capabilities (Reynolds et al., 2002). In effect, learning leads to an increase in knowledge, s, skills, and capacities that will lead to the development of new skills and capacities (Lohman, 2005). These are some of the definitions that have been attributed to learning. Although these definitions provide an idea as to how learning may be viewed, it does not remove the ambiguity that appears to be inherent in the definition provided.