Exploring the Informal Curriculum: How It Shapes Our Lives
Introduction
Our education system has always been solely focused on formal learning, which is taught in classrooms under the guidance of teachers. But there is another type of learning that is equally important, if not more so, called informal learning. This type of learning is not well-defined and is gained from daily experiences and interactions. In this blog, we will explore the informal curriculum, how it shapes our thinking and behavior, and how it is just as important as formal learning.
The Informal Curriculum Defined
Informal learning happens constantly without us even realizing it. It is gained through daily life experiences, such as socializing with peers, family values, and observing people around us. Elements of the informal curriculum include socialization, culture, and life skills. A lot of what we learn from these sources are subliminal and not directly taught, making them vital for shaping who we are.
How the Informal Curriculum Shapes Our Lives
The informal curriculum significantly impacts our thinking, perception, and behavior. Socialization is a core part of informal learning, where children acquire behaviors, attitudes, and values based on interaction with their peers. These interactions shape their social skills, communication, and emotional intelligence. For example, children who grow up in households where they witness their parents arguing frequently, are more likely to exhibit aggressive and confrontational behavior.
Culture is another vital component that comes under informal learning. The culture in which we live, the language we speak, the rituals we follow, all contribute to shaping our lives. It influences how we view the world, what we find acceptable, and what we do not. Therefore, it is crucial to have diverse experiences and interact with people of different cultures, to broaden our perspective and understand the world better.
Life skills learned from informal education are also essential. These include skills such as time management, critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making. Such skills are not taught in classrooms, but they are crucial for success in the real world. Individuals who lack these essential skills may face difficulties in personal and professional life.
Examples of Informal Learning in Daily Life
Let’s take two examples, the first one is an individual who grew up in a household where everyone was into sports. The person might develop an interest in a sport and become adequately skilled at it over time. Without formal training, the person has developed an informal curriculum. The second example is of a person traveling overseas and experiencing different cultures and people. This experience can help the person develop an appreciation for diversity and give them a different perspective on life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, informal learning is an integral part of who we are. It plays a massive role in shaping our lives and our personalities. From socialization to culture, to life skills, we learn from our daily experiences. This type of learning is not apparent, yet it is crucial for how we view the world. It is up to us to take advantage of these informal opportunities to learn and grow as individuals, as these can be the most rewarding lessons we will ever learn.
