Informal Learning
Learning experiences can be placed on a continuum from informal situations such as a conversation with a friend to formal environments such as workshops and courses. Many school and public library, museum, and nature center activities are informal.
Informal learning is often associated with free-choice, out-of-school inquiries. However it can also occur in classroom settings when students seek out learning opportunities beyond formal assignment requirements. For instance, children may learn by observing a class pet, enjoying a book in the leisure reading area, or participating in a discussion at recess.
Teachers and librarians can build environments that promote informal learning. For instance, a traditional bulletin board could be turned into an interactive area to explore new ideas. Displays associated with course content can extend subject area learning.
Read Key Word: Informal Learning in THE BLUE BOOK by Callison and Preddy, 395-400.