Formal, informal and non-formal education systems are the three primary types of learning programs. Formal learning involves full-time and intentional learning provided by an educational institution within a structured context. This constitutes primary, secondary and tertiary schools. Informal learning, on the other hand, involves the acquisition of knowledge, skills and values from daily experiences and activities. It is non-intentional and not structured.
Non-formal learning, meanwhile, is an organised learning program that still follows a planned and structured curriculum. But unlike formal education, this type of learning focuses on building a learner’s capacities, positive attitude and skills. This is not provided by traditional education institutions. This provides a great alternative to individuals who have no access to formal education.
In a fast-changing world where those with skills are, most of the time, more successful than those without, a non-formal education system might be the best choice for your children. It is fast gaining popularity worldwide today, being offered in several educational centres, including an international school in Bali such as ProEducation School.
Here are the different learning approaches used in non-formal education.
Participation-Oriented Learning
In this approach, the learning activities are developed in a way that students can actively participate. The teacher acts as the supervisor for these activities. Most schools now use different technologies for participation-centred learning. Participation-oriented learning not only promotes a strong community spirit but also enables students to learn from their mistakes and those of others.
Acquisition-Oriented Learning
This closely resembles formal learning settings. The learner acquires knowledge from a teacher through lectures, books and handouts. Most of the time, the learner is only a listener who takes down notes or can use different technologies to store the information being handed out. But unlike in a formal education system, learners here have an option of what classes they want to attend. This, in turn, boosts their attention and interest.
Contribution-Oriented Learning
This closely resembles the participation-oriented approach. Unlike the latter, however, learners will not just engage in set activities. They are actually co-creators or authors of the programs. This will not only boost their creativity but also increase their engagement in the activities at hand.
The education you give your children is a primary determinant of the adults that they will become. The above non-formal education approaches introduce fun into learning and therefore, are your best bet to successful adulthood. Fortunately, non-formal education is inexpensive and caters for students with different learning needs.
Non-formal education greatly helps in meeting the needs of individuals whose demands are not met in a formal education system that is so rigid. The rigid structure of educational institutions offering formal learning, most of the time, fails to focus on the real needs of students. This calls for non-formal learning, which offers a curriculum that focuses on the individual and society.
In a non-formal learning approach, students also have the freedom to choose which programme and activities to participate in. This gives them the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge in their own interests, helping them grow to become the best adults that they can be.
