scholarly journals CONSIDERATIONS ON INFORMAL LEARNING: DIFFERENT CONCEPTS AND THEIR DIMENSIONS

Author(s):  
Ramune Bagdonaite-Stelmokiene ◽  
Vilma Zydziunaite

The definition of “informal learning” is ambiguous and thus distinguished by the diverse interpretations. The article aims to reveal identical learning dimensions (process, activity, context, interactions and outcomes), which set up different concepts of “informal learning”. The research question refers to the content of dimensions for distinct concepts of “informal learning”. The analysis has disclosed the “informal learning” to be continuum between “self-directed learning”, “self-regulated learning”, “self-managed learning”, “experiential learning”, “incidental/accidental learning”, “situated learning”, “learning through socialization” or “tacit learning”. Those diverse types of “informal learning” supplement each other rather than compete against. Learning intention, process and context setting might be manifested in distinct degrees, however, “informal learning” may refer to the construct covering learning forms, activities and acquired learning outcomes supplementing each other.  

2019 ◽  
Vol 39 ◽  
pp. 52-58 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chun Lai

AbstractThis article discusses some of the current research on technology in relation to learner autonomy, outlining major findings on the relationship between technology and learner autonomy in formal and informal learning contexts. Extant literature has discussed both teacher-initiated technology-enhanced formal learning environments and learner-constructed self-directed learning experience in informal learning contexts. Although valuable in the insights it provides into how technology aids learner autonomy, the two bodies of literature have largely been independent from each other, which may constrain our understanding.


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Līga Beļicka ◽  
◽  
Tatjana Bicjutko

The fast transition to fully online studies due to the pandemic made the universities around the world question many of their accepted notions on teaching foreign languages in general and English for Specific Purposes (ESP) methodology in particular. Putting stress on the synchronous remote teaching and learning has proven to yield a reductionist perspective missing asynchronicity, the dimension which makes reconsider the whole educational process. With its shift from the sole focus on learning terminology to training skills in authentic professional contexts, the task-based approach has long excelled in meeting the diverse needs of students. Thus, the research question is how well task-based teaching (TBT) solves the problems raised with asynchronous learning in a university ESP course. The research of available literature on TBT yielded the framework for constructing an extended task applicable in the advanced medical English. The case study with 120 first-year students of medicine organised around an informational interview with health professionals demonstrated easy adaptability of the task to the asynchronous nature of the educational process. Personal observations by the course instructor, summaries of student-conducted interviews, and student written feedback proved the responsiveness of the method to the learners’ needs and the potential of the approach in terms of motivation. The emphasis on self-directed learning, however, threatens the systematicity of the acquired language skills, as a more controlled teaching environment would not allow “skipping” any learning step. Additionally, TBT does not solve the problem of the voluminous teaching load.


PLoS ONE ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (7) ◽  
pp. e0255177
Author(s):  
Zahid Shafait ◽  
Muhammad Asif Khan ◽  
Yuriy Bilan ◽  
Judit Oláh

Objective: Drawing on the knowledge-based view and ability-based theories of emotional intelligence (EI), in this study, we investigate the effects of EI on learning outcomes related to academics and administrators in Chinese research universities and we also test the direct association between learning outcomes and creative performance. In addition, we examine the mediating role of self-directed learning (SDL) and knowledge management processes (KMPs) on the relationship between EI and learning outcomes. Methods: The sample, for this study, consisted of 547 academic and administrative personnel at Chinese higher educational institutions (HEIs), and the hypothesized associations were examined through partial least squares structural equation modeling. Results: Our results indicated that EI has no significant influence on learning outcomes. However, an indirect relationship between EI and learning outcomes is established through SDL and KMPs. Conclusions: This study strengthens the professional understanding of EI and supports that the personnel at HEIs should value SDL and KMPs, which in turn enhances their learning outcomes. Although EI has received increased importance in higher education institutions, there are few studies that have investigated the relationship of EI, SDL, KMP, and learning outcomes. This is one of the initial studies that has empirically examined the interface of EI and learning outcomes in HEIs and also provides timely insights into the understanding of the mediating role of SDL and KMP.


2018 ◽  
Vol 31 (3) ◽  
pp. 256
Author(s):  
Agie Nugroho Soegiono ◽  
Aulia Anis ◽  
Saskia Rizqina Maulida

This essay discusses deschooling concept as an alternative learning delivery method to achieve education for all. We argue that the deschooling idea, first introduced by Illich before the era of the Internet, has become relevant in relation to today’s education challenges. What we mean by deschooling in this paper is not the abolishment of the schooling system. Instead, the recall of deschooling discourse aims to provide more recognition of learning activities outside of the school setting. The learning webs, a key enabler in deschooling discourse, are realistic when implemented with the help of 21st century’s technology. The argument in this paper utilised an in-depth literature review and discourse analysis in the deschooling debate. To strengthen our argument, we have provided three case studies in the form of informal learning, non-formal learning and e-learning related to deschooling initiatives. Based on our findings, we can conclude that deschooling society is certainly viable. The principles used in deschooling, such as flexibility, inclusiveness, adaptability and personalisation, are alternatives for everyone to have freedom of access, use, copy, and modify learning resources. We also found that there may be possible challenges, including the limitation of self-directed learning, the pitfall of institutionalised capital and a lack of social interaction.


Author(s):  
Jane Pilling-Cormick

When exploring the central role control plays in implementing technology-enhanced learning initiatives, it is essential to take into consideration self-regulated learning (SRL) and self-directed learning (SDL). Pilling-Cormick & Garrison’s (2007) work provides a research framework which includes a comprehensive overview of how SRL and SDL are integrally related. In this chapter, the connection is taken one step further by using the framework to explore SRL/SDL Technology-Enhanced learning. Implications for practice are derived from three exploratory studies using technology-enhanced learning (handheld, web-based, and online) with a focus on learner control. Solutions and recommendations arise, including considerations for designing instruction with a focus on learner control as it relates to technology.


2009 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 37-54 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maurice Taylor ◽  
Karen Evans

The purpose of this exploratory study was to investigate some of the kinds of formal and informal workplace training activities that workers with low literacy engage in from different parts of Canada and the United Kingdom. The study employed a multi-site case study research design with 31 employees and 18 instructors from seven different types of workplace literacy programmes in various regions of Canada and 42 employees and six supervisors/tutors from four workplace basic skills programmes in the north and south of Greater London, England. Data sources from each country were developed and were used for comparable purposes following a within case and cross case analysis. The findings are described under three main themes. The first theme depicts the range of formal workplace programmes in both countries that employees with low literacy have participated in. The second pattern highlights the main types of informal learning activities that emerged from the data which included: observing from knowledgeables; practicing without supervision; searching independently for information; focused workplace discussions and mentoring and coaching. The third theme describes some of the determining factors of the informal learning process. Implications of the study suggest that company sponsored workplace and essential skills programmes act as catalysts for further learning at work. As well, findings also seem to indicate that various forms of self-directed learning and the organisational context may play an important role as these workers engage in and shape everyday workplace practices. Suggestions for continuing the cross nation studies are also discussed.


2014 ◽  
Vol 116 ◽  
pp. 5184-5187 ◽  
Author(s):  
Afsaneh Dehnad ◽  
Fariba Afsharian ◽  
Fatemehe Hosseini ◽  
Seyyed Kamran Soltani Arabshahi ◽  
Shoaleh Bigdeli

Author(s):  
Mohammad Amro Mohammad Suleiman ◽  
Mahendran Maniam

The main aim of this study is to help EFL students’ improve their oral communication proficiency out-of-class. To achieve that, video-movie was chosen as a medium for improving the subjects' oral communication proficiency. It was hoped that movie could function as a pseudo-immersion for the students, an accessible and easy alternative to being in the English native countries. Based on that, this study aim has been transformed into this research question ‘what effect does self-directed learning using movies has on the students' perceived oral communication proficiency?’. To answer that, six first year students at the faculty of English language and literature, Ajloun University in Jordan, were selected based on purposive sampling and divided equally into two groups, treatment and control, based on random assignment. The subjects in both groups were asked to take the self-assessment language test twice, once before the beginning of the case study scheme and another after. Likewise, to be interviewed twice, and to fill in the study notes during the case study scheme. Only the treatment group were given eight movies with its guides and asked to self-study with it over eight weeks. The results from the case study indicated that movie could help improve the students' oral communication proficiency with higher post-test scores than pre-test scores. Methodological triangulation from both the interviews and study notes also supports the assertion that movie improved the subjects’ oral communication proficiency. The subjects in the treatment group revealed in the post-interview that movies helped improve their listening skills and two subjects suggested that it could possibly have helped improve their speaking skills as well. Their perception in their study notes also supports the results. In conclusion, it is very likely that self-directed learning using movies has improved the students’ oral communication proficiency. This study has implications for practical applications in language teaching and learning which suggests that movie can be effective out of class. In addition, the results suggest that further larger scale investigations into students' language improvement out of class will be worth carrying out.


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