INTRODUCTION

Formal learning is structured, guided, and assessed within a formal educational setting, with the goal of achieving specific learning outcomes and credentials. On the other hand, informal learning is spontaneous, self-directed, and driven by personal interests or practical needs, focusing on acquiring knowledge and skills through real-world experiences and interactions.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FORMAL AND INFORMAL LEARNING

Formal learning and informal learning are two different approaches to acquiring knowledge and skills. The key differences between these two types of learning are as follows:

FORMAL LEARNING

1. Structure – Formal learning is structured and organized within a formal educational system, such as schools, colleges, universities, or training programs. It follows a curriculum and is often guided by teachers or instructors.

2. Purpose – The main purpose of formal learning is to achieve specific learning objectives, meet educational standards, and earn recognized credentials or qualifications.

3. Assessment – Formal learning is typically assessed through exams, tests, assignments, or projects to measure the mastery of knowledge and skills acquired.

4. Setting – Formal learning takes place in designated learning environments, such as classrooms, laboratories, or online platforms, with scheduled sessions and set learning objectives.

INFORMAL LEARNING

1. Structure – Informal learning is unstructured and occurs spontaneously in everyday life, without a formal curriculum or designated learning environment. It is often self-directed and driven by personal interests or needs.

2. Purpose – Informal learning is driven by curiosity, practical experience, and problem-solving. It focuses on acquiring practical skills, knowledge, or information for personal or professional development.

3. Assessment – Informal learning is not typically assessed through formal evaluations or standardized tests. Instead, learning progress is often self-assessed or evaluated through practical application.

4. Setting – Informal learning can take place anywhere and at any time, such as through interactions with peers, mentors, online resources, reading, observation, or hands-on experiences.