Information and Communication Technologies for Informal Learning

Informal learning can be characterized as unorganized (not disorganized), unsystematic (not a-systematic), and regularly serendipitous. This type of learning can embrace the lifelong process of learning by which people acquire and accumulate knowledge skills, attitudes, and insights gathered from a lifetime of experiences. This entry, however, focuses on learning environments that allow users to structure and control their learning, whether that learning is intentional or incidental. The locus of control is held firmly by the learner, as is the intention and structure of learning, and the purpose of gathering with others to learn is to capitalize on what the group may have to offer, a strategic and situation-specific approach rather than a chaotic approach, as it is so often described.

Among the many challenges to how ...