5 Informal Learning Experience Examples
Among the different types of informal learning experience examples, job rotations are an excellent way to expose employees to various business areas and departments. Such activities can speed up on-the-job training, provide a fresh perspective, and deepen cross-departmental relationships. Another effective method is to organize work events, like seminars and company retreats, and bring in guest speakers to share their knowledge. Such events can facilitate knowledge transfer and build relationships within the organization. Furthermore, team-building activities are a great way to enhance confidence.
Job rotation
In addition to reducing turnover, job rotation programs can also increase employee satisfaction and motivation. Unlike traditional job-rotation programs, these programs provide employees with the opportunity to broaden their experience and pursue a career path that best fits their skills and interests. Job rotations also help employees develop new skills and develop their personal agility. As a result, job rotations can be beneficial for both employees and employers. Here are five benefits of job rotation.
One of the most common forms of job rotation is the traineeship model, in which a person spends two years in four different roles. This helps graduates identify their strengths and explore hidden talents. In addition to providing valuable work experience, traineeships can also help employees understand their strengths and weaknesses and develop new skills. The benefits of a traineeship are clear:
Incidental learning
Whether learning happens by accident or intentionally is debated. It is generally assumed that intentional learning is better than incidental learning, and there is no evidence that it is not possible to learn things without deliberate effort. For instance, Batting FW and Brackett RH compared two methods of paired association learning: anticipation and recall. In their study, Brain 124(Pt 11) discussed the differences between the two types of learning. Further, Mark AM and Michael EM looked at the effects of delayed and immediate recall on the learning process.
Incidental learning is learning that happens alongside the actual learning event. It is also referred to as ‘hidden’ curriculum, because it is not explicitly identified within a lesson. For instance, a teacher might choose to add a you tube video to a lesson on computer skills, but a student doesn’t know this feature exists. The student would have no idea that the teacher is using power point capabilities. Incidental learning is not related to a teacher’s instruction and occurs spontaneously.
Networking
The study shows that 70% of the learning we receive comes from our job experience, 20% from workplace interactions, and 10% from formal education. In addition, networking can be a great way to build valuable professional relationships, learn new skills, and expand your knowledge. Some organizations even pair new employees with experienced colleagues to help them get the most out of their networking opportunities. Networking is a natural extension of your job. Therefore, it’s vital to take advantage of networking opportunities to learn new things and improve your knowledge base.
In addition to fostering independent learning, networking can also lead to formal learning networks. Just-in-time information is meant to be readily available, without heavy review or hoops to jump through. Simply put, just-in-time information should provide a learner with the information they need at the time. However, this doesn’t mean you need to overwhelm the learner with a bunch of extra information. Instead, you should provide tools for further research and allow them to drive the learning experience.
Educational games and simulations
In a formal setting, simulations can be valuable tools to reinforce concepts, but they’re not always as effective in an informal setting. Many simulations are too hard for students to play, and their feedback is often diffuse and delayed. On the other hand, good simulations can be completed in under a minute and provide clear feedback on the user’s progress. In addition, they can allow students to customize their own experience and explore the full range of potential outcomes.
In informal settings, educators have many options. They can target a wide variety of goals, from increasing ethnic diversity among scientists to increasing scientific literacy in society. By designing their experiences based on the interests of students, they can reach different demographics and appeal to diverse audiences. Some examples of informal learning experiences include:
Creating a culture of informal learning
A culture of informal learning is crucial to fostering a sense of belonging. Employees should feel that sharing ideas and collaboration is an expected part of the job. To make this possible, companies should create spaces where employees can share their ideas and knowledge on a regular basis. One way to do this is to utilize a knowledge management platform. Regardless of how the culture is cultivated, employees should have constant opportunities to contribute ideas and share information.
Depending on the type of workplace, informal learning can take place in conversations with co-workers, in team-building activities, or in more structured settings. Often, this form of learning occurs without a formal curriculum, schedule, or syllabus. It is a great way for employees to learn on the job, without committing to a formal training schedule. It can be completed at a person’s own pace, and may even spark further research.
