Social, Formal, and Informal Learning: Can You Tell the Difference?

Learning is a process that starts from the cradle and continues till one reaches the grave. In a world where one can be inspired to learn from anything, learning can happen anywhere, anytime, and with anyone. However, many forms of learning exist which depend on the degree of their complexity and flexibility. Social, formal, and informal learning have their roots deep in the ideology of learning. In this article, you’ll discover the differences which set each of these learning types apart.

The Difference between Social, Formal, and Informal Learning

Many people confuse social learning with informal learning and vice versa. Let’s take a closer look into what makes social, formal, and informal learning different from each other.

• Social Learning – As the name indicates, the social influence navigates the thought process and boosts the learner’s ability to expand his cranium. The learner observes, examines and evaluates his social environment in order to learn a particular behavior. He must be then asked to imitate the same behavior on his own.  

For social learning, the learner must also be required to comprehend certain behaviors for rewards and punishments. In the corporate world, social learning can also be promoted among employees by using social learning tools, platform, or even a social learning software.

• Formal Learning –    Formal learning is synonymous with a strict schedule – in which courses and syllabus are represented in a systematic and structured manner. The content is designed by a specific and experienced group of instructors and trainers.     

Formal learning programs are employed in companies which are inclined to train their employees according to their devised standards. As observed by Jay Cross, the author of Informal Learning: Rediscovering the Natural Pathways that Inspire Innovation and Performance, formal learning is like “the driver decides where the bus is going; the passengers are along for the ride."

• Informal Learning – In contrast to social and formal learning systems, informal learning is an improper form of learning. Jay Cross links it to riding a bike    where "the       rider chooses the destination, the speed, and the route." It is a flexible method that most companies employ to generate creative content without a formal training system. The learners develop their learning skills by participating in discussions and presentations that are based on their personal interests.      

 What makes it interesting in the corporate business is its ability to produce ample opportunities to brainstorm and groom employees using informal learning tools and software. It offers a variety of online learning experiences that are fun, engaging, and creative.