Demystifying Informal Learning

Have you ever learned something valuable — without any school, class, or training program?

(See where this conversation started in yesterday’s article.)

We all do it all the time. It’s called informal learning.

You’re doing it right now. In fact, you’re informally learning about informal learning.

Whoa.

Informal learning is self-directed. That’s different from formal learning (school) and non-formal learning (short courses). Most of us spend more time on informal learning than on the other two.

Informal learners are driven by their curiosity. There are no grades, no required order, and no certificate. The learner decides how deeply to explore, and when they’re done.

This takes infinite forms: a conversation, a documentary, a book, a hobby.

Also: reading the MtM newsletter, listening to the MtM podcast, and going to museums.

Regardless of format, the learner chooses whether to participate, what to pay attention to, what to skip, and whether they are inspired to learn more.

Here's the thing:

Informal learning — clearly our favorite at MtM — is a great way to learn.

But the learner is in control.

Exhibition teams should never forget that.

Warmly,
Jonathan

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MtM Word of the Day:
Informal learning. Self-directed learning driven by learner curiosity. It happens through everyday activities like reading, conversations, travel, hobbies, podcasts, newsletters, and museums.