Informal Workplace Learning Report
13 Pages3871 Words186 Views
Added on 2020-04-07
Informal Workplace Learning Report
Added on 2020-04-07
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Running Head: Informal LearningInformal workplace learningReport on promoting individual workplace learning
Informal Learning1IntroductionInformal learning is a vital aspect in the growth and development of every individual. Informal learning refers to the learning which is not structured or formal. It has no set goals or objectives and hence cannot be bounded by timelines or structures. It can be promoted but it also largely depends on the individual’s basic nature (Noe, 2013). Many organizations promote informal learning as it leads to individual’s advancement and offers learning opportunities. Informal learning clearly identifies the importance of socializing in the work place and learning from other individuals, however, it is much wider than simply increasing network for the purpose of socialization (Bancheva, 2015). The focus is built on learning due to the environment an individual is in and surrounding people. This is very different from the traditional concept of formal training, induction or learning (Manuti, 2015).Informal learning throws light on the ability of individuals’ to learn from other people’s experiences and spread learning and knowledge from their own experiences. Organizations are focussing more on creating an environment that promotes informal learning. This benefitsthe employee as well as the organization and leads to improved performance for both. Besides this, it further leads to employee engagement, learning, growth of a more positive culture and also provides employee with a platform for innovative thinking and fosters creativity (Watkins, 2014).This particular report throws light on how organizations can promote and enhance informal learning in a workplace. It covers aspects like the factors influencing informal learning; personal individualistic characteristics that impact informal learning and the benefits of informal learning and how does it impact the growth of an individual. The report ends with certain recommendations to promote informal learning in an organization. These recommendations have been defined after in depth research and understanding.
Informal Learning2FindingsHow do individuals learn in the workplaceTeam buildingThe best way for an individual to foster learning is to work with other people in a team. When three or more people come together, they share experiences, thoughts, ideas and knowledge which in turn provide a platform for learning among individuals (Tannenbaum, 2010). The formation of teams is hence a crucial aspect of any organization. Team work also enables immediate feedbacks given to employees. At the time of a conflict, team members discuss, argue and make decisions. This provides for a wonderful opportunity of informal learning to an individual (Mathieu, 2015). FeedbacksFeedbacks given to employees play a vital role in shaping their growth and affecting their performance. Feedbacks are given by superiors or colleagues. Both these forms of feedback help in letting the employee know his or her shortcomings and areas of improvement. A transparent and genuine feedback mechanism leads to employee’s improved growth (Baker, 2013). Feedbacks are formal as well as informal. However, informal feedback has a more positive approach and improves the learner’s ability to understand (Holmes, 2015). Experience Very often, employees learn from their experience or the experience of others. This is first hand learning and creates a long lasting learning in the minds of the employee. What an employee learns from his experience sustains with him for a longer duration (Kolb, 2014). Experience is the best teacher in the true aspect. When employee’s share their experience with other members of the organization, it also creates a better flow of communication and helps in achieving more learning by employees (Pellegrino, 2017).Leaders leading by exampleWhen the leaders or the people in authority in any organization behave and accomplish goals,they can be sources of informal learning for the employees. This is why it is crucial that the
Informal Learning3leaders of the organization lead by example. This creates respect for them and a better learning opportunity for employees (Fullan, 2014). Self-ReflectionThe procedure of a learner learning from himself is known as self-reflection. This is an important style of learning. Employees often learn from their mistakes and their achievements (Boud, 2013). After completion of every task, employees are recommended to self-reflect upon different areas of the task and their performance and learn from the same (Hager, 2011). Factors enabling informal learningOrganizational culture is extremely crucial when it comes to informal learning. Certain organizations promote informal learning while certain organizations restrict it. Let us first take a look at factors that enable informal learning in an organization and must be implemented efficiently.Transparent feedbacksFeedbacks given to employees play a vital role in their learning and growth. It is therefore important that feedbacks given to an individual, whether formal or informal, are transparent and genuine. The purpose of the feedback should always be to foster growth and performancerather than discouraging or belittling an employee (Bernstein, 2017). The purity of this intention deeply impacts employees. A transparent feedback mechanism assists employees in understanding their performance areas that require improvement and hence leads to learning.Structuring of workWork must be well structured and clearly defined in the organization. This is important because then the employees know and understand their job roles and work to excel in their respective fields. This structure of job leads to efficient association with other members of theorganization and enhances chances of informal learning at a work place.Team activities Team activities are usually done to promote a positive culture in a team. During team activities, members learn from each other, share their personal experiences and provide
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