How does informal/formal learning relate to self-directed learning? Before answering, a distinction should first be made between formal and informal learning.
While formal and informal learning may be similar in terms of what is learned and the purpose of the learning, they differ in terms of when learning occurs, how it occurs and where it occurs. Basically, formal learning is structured in terms of place, time and methodology. Not so informal learning, which can occur 24/7, anytime, anyplace.
Informal learning refers to the wide variety of unstructured ways in which learning can occur, for example:
- Coaching and mentoring
- Discussions
- Reading (of all kinds)
- Debates Internet/database searches
- Feedback sessions (e.g., performance evaluations)
- Questioning colleagues
- Asking for assistance with a specific problem
In addition, informal learning is frequently spontaneous or ad hoc in nature. Formal learning, on the other hand, involves training that is structured, i.e., purposefully designed and scheduled. This would include such training as:
- Classroom sessions
- Seminars
- Workshops
- Webinars
- Pod-casts, and
- Elearning courses
Formal and informal learning have everything to do with the ways in which learning occurs. Self-directed learning, on the other hand, has everything to do with the responsibility and accountability for learning, i.e., who drives the learning, who is responsible for what is learned, when it is learned and how it is learned.
While the vast majority of learning done by a self-directed learner involves informal learning like methods, a self-directed learner can also learn via formal learning. SDL encompasses and is not limited or restricted to one or the other.
Given this, there is a greater affinity between SDL and informal learning. This stems primarily from the fact that informal learning supports and encourages SDL as informal learning is problem-oriented (i.e., looking for a solution or answer), time sensitive (here and now), and usually highly specific to a given situation or circumstance. In addition, informal learning is highly personal.
