Integrating Informal Learning With School Programs at the Secondary Level

Since the beginning of the 21st century, digital applications, smartphones, online gaming, cloud computing, and social media have become rapidly woven into everyday life. This is especially true for today’s youths (digital learners) who thrive on opportunities to express themselves through social and digital media. Glen Bull and his colleagues detailed that the growth of digital media has led to varied and creative platforms for youths to express themselves, whether through social networking, video and image creation and editing sites, blogs, or wikis. The challenge for educators is to find opportunities to bridge academic content to this enthusiasm for authentic learning outside the classroom through informal learning. This entry defines informal learning, discusses its benefits in particular fields, and explains how secondary school instructors can ...