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Informal learning

Last update : 29.11.2024

Definition

Learning arising from daily activities linked to work, family or leisure. It is not organised or structured (in terms of objectives, time or resources).

Source: Loi du 19 décembre 2008 portant réforme de la formation professionnelle

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Acquisition of knowledge, know-how, information, values, skills and competences in the framework of daily activities – work, family or leisure – which are not explicitly designated as learning activities in terms of objectives, time or learning support.

Comment:

  • Informal learning may be unintentional from the learner’s perspective;
  • its outcomes may be validated and certified;
  • informal learning is also referred to as experiential or incidental/random learning;
  • this term is close to, but not synonymous with: non-formal learning.

Source: Cedefop (2023) "Terminology of European education and training policy: A selection of key terms"