Informal Learning is Key to Understanding Performance Over Time

Informal learning is what happens when knowledge has not been externalized or captured and exists only inside someone’s head. To get at the knowledge, you must locate and talk to that person.

The informal element of learning needs to be factored into the equation for any real learning to take place. Companies need to add those accidental, informal intersections of learning and performance into the process.

Studies indicate that almost all real learning for performance is informal (The Institute for Research on Learning, 2000, Menlo Park). Furthermore, the people from whom we learn informally are usually present in real time. Ideally, access to an expert who can answer our questions and with whom we can play with the learning, practice, make mistakes, and practice some more.

It's the spur-of-the-moment exchange of information that sets the stage for informal learning. Examples of such informal knowledge transfer include instant messaging, a spontaneous meeting on the Internet, a phone call to someone who has information you need, a chat-room in real time, a chance meeting by the water cooler, a tech walking you through a repair process, or a meeting with your assigned mentor or manager.

The Business Perspective on Informal Learning

The majority of companies that provide training are currently involved only with the formal side of the continuum. Most of today’s investments are on the formal side. The net result is that companies spend the most money on the smallest part - 25% - of the learning equation.

The other 75 percent of learning happens as the learner creatively adopts and adapts to ever changing circumstances. The informal piece of the equation is not only larger, it’s crucial to learning how to do anything.

"Just-in-Time" Reference Zeitgeist: Welcome to Google Earth

At our fingertips we have several tools that give insight into global, regional, past and present trends. Roy Furchgott, chief contributor to the New York Times App of the Week series, writes, "What was once called 'good old American know-how' may seem a lost trait, but it isn't lost. It's on your phone!"

Information on its own is not useful. Instead, it simply exists on our computer screens, smart phones, and television monitors. Information awaits our interpretations. It is waiting for us to attach meaning to it.

The Venza Group believes that making training content available for an informal exchange is key to bridging the Training Gap.

Gap Training Materials: “Let Your Reference Be Your eGuide”

A training gap exists when there is a difference between present job skills and the skills needed, now and/or in the future. The execution of gap training is necessary for companies to remain competitive in the marketplace, today more than ever.

Extraordinary training gap materials are an astute blend of attractiveness, sound instructional design, developmental ease, and operational agility. Effective production of instructional materials that bridge training gaps requires an ingenious methodology. The Venza Group’s passion for informal learning effectiveness is best illustrated by the “Let Your Reference Be Your eGuide” workshop.

Informal learning can take place over the telephone or through the Internet, as well as in person. If Informal learning is not built into training and development initiatives, the chances of getting past knowing to doing will be difficult at best.

For more information regarding our informal learning solutions, please contact us or dial (770) 685-6500.