It seems that informal learning is slowly gaining traction and meeting our needs at the point of need. Does this mean that formal training should be phased out? The truth is that both formal and informal learning should complement each other to support learning and maximize learning effectiveness. Informal learning is often less structured than traditional learning. Students learn from the people they share their experiences with, especially outside of a structured classroom setting. Informal learning provides additional opportunities for young learners to explore topics of interest using various resources (both digital and non-digital). When young people have the chance to explore robotics, launch a small business, or grow a community garden, they gain skills and build a stronger sense of belonging. They find mentors, peers, and internships, and they hone social and emotional skills to navigate uncertain times. In a growing mental health crisis for kids, these experiences and supports are more crucial than ever.
I believe that schools and communities are one unit, and partnerships with all community sectors are essential to helping children reach their maximum potential. Community collaboration with schools complements and reinforces values, culture, and the learning opportunities schools can provide for their students. In other words, all of us — teachers, staff, parents, businesses, nonprofits, service clubs, and the like — truly make a difference in the lives of our students.
References
Lichtman, G. (2013, March 21). What 60 Schools Can Tell Us About Teaching 21st Century Skills: Grant Lichtman at TEDxDenverTeachers. YouTube. Retrieved April 27,
2022, from https://youtu.be/UZEZTyxSl3g
MacArthur Foundation. (2010, December 1). Rethinking Learning: The 21st Century Learner | MacArthur Foundation. YouTube. Retrieved April 18, 2022,
Comments