Teaching Tip: How to integrate informal learning into the classroom

June 9, 2015

‘Informal learning’ can be described as the learning process that takes place outside the educational institution. There is a perceived, and often intentional, disconnect between the highly directed learning that happens at an educational institution and that which happens outside class time and at our own direction as part of our lifelong learning experience.

Furthermore, research studies estimate that about 80% of our job-related adult learning experiences take place outside of the formal setting. Bridging the gap by recognizing the importance of alternative learning may help to ensure that students see the relevance of their university experience and help make connections in their own lives and careers to carry forth an enduring understanding and lasting engagement with the topic.

Here are some ideas:

Regularly integrate current place-based events and ideas into open discussions and class activities.

Encourage the use of mobile devices in class occasionally.

Try using games in class. Learning through game-play requires sustained attention, is social, and motivational. Often knowledge learned outside class time is necessary to be successful.

Encourage students to blog and develop a portfolio during their degree program.

Incorporate service learning into your curriculum

By making an effort to recognize the importance of informal and non-formal learning experiences, we can perhaps offer a more integrated educational experience and one that connects integrally with the student’s greater ecosystem of learning.