Three Theoretical Perspectives on Informal Learning at Work

The workplace is a key arena for learning in today’s society. The spiraling demand for knowledge in the workplace has increased interest in informal learning. In the field of adult education, informal learning has been recognized as one of the primary ways that adults learn throughout their lives. Although there are numerous informal learning approaches, the goal of this chapter is to explore three theoretical perspectives of informal learning in the workplace: individual, social and integrated. These perspectives raise issues as well as highlight the limitations and benefits of informal workplace learning. The chapter concludes with solutions and recommendations for dealing with the issues and implications for the practice of adult education.