A review of informal learning literature, theory and implications for practice in developing global professional competence
Journal of European Industrial Training, 28 (2/3/4):
283-295 (2004)Abstract
Informal learning’s roots emerged from educational philosophers John Dewey, Kurt
Lewin and Mary Parker Follett to theorists Malcolm Knowles and other successive researchers.
This paper explores the background and definitions of informal learning and applications to the
global workplace. Informal learning’s challenges are applied to developing global professional
competence, including theory, practice and policy implications. The paper argues that informal
learning plays a considerable role in developing professional expertise in the workplace and private
life, yet believes no current theoretical model exists to balance conflicts between the role of
individual and organizational benefits in a global context.