Informal and Incidental LearningFormal learning is a recognized process of study reformulated with a certificate or some form of special recognition by a specific institution. Formal learning is classroom based, usually the institution sponsors this type of learning and it has structured forms. Informal learning includes learning that is incidental, in locations other than the classroom, such as a workplace setting, and unstructured. Learners control their own progress in their studies and determine what they want to learn. Informal learning is usually intentional, such as self-directed learning, networking, coaching, and mentoring. Informal learning can occur incidentally and unconsciously. Subsequent authors (Marsick and Watkins 1990 p. 25) and (Garrick 1998 p. 26) compared informal learning to the concept of “en passant”. Informal learning compared to formal and conformal learning by (Reischmann 1986 p. 26), social modeling by Bandura in 1986, experimental learning by Boud, Cohen, Walker in 1993, self-directed by Candy 1991. The other authors compared incidental learning to: - action learning as a variant of experiential learning, - science of action - reflection in action - critical reflection and transformative learning - tacit knowledge - situated cognition - communities of practiceIncidental and informal learning is practiced in many cultures and in different contexts, for example in the private and public sectors, hospitals, health care, colleges and universities, schools, professional associations, museums, religious organizations, families and communities. Learning from Study According to a study by Colbert and Diesel, teachers learn informally through reflection. ..development. Employers learn how to access new knowledge, examine multiple ways of learning, and plan for future learning more effectively. The adult educator can help employers identify conditions for learning more effectively. For example, welfare recipients must go jogging and maintain their jobs for an extended period of time. According to the studies conducted, different levels of learning occur in various groups such as: Individual learners – who have learned by acquiring knowledge and skills. At the team level – people learn through the mutual construction of new knowledge, including the capacity for concerted and collaborative action. Organizational level – policies, procedures, work processes, information system, organizational mental models and product and service knowledge influence learning. and Watkins 1990 p... 25