Week 3: Formal and Informal Learning

 


I agree with Greenhow and Lewin’s (2016) view that social media bridges the formal and informal learning divide. Depending on the context and the objectives of the learning activity, social media platforms can support both formal and informal learning. These platforms certainly reflect the methodologies of constructivism and connectivism. Formal learning examples tend to be more structured and examples include: in YouTube, providing students with playlists aligned with objectives; and using Linkedin Learning which offers certified courses. Informal learning is freer and is driven by curiosity, interest and social interaction, examples include: providing a prompt that facilitates further investigation; and exposing learners to podcast materials that stimulates ideas and inquiry.  

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