Definition

Acquisition of knowledge, know-how, information, values, skills and competences in the framework of daily activities – work, family or leisure – which are not explicitly designated as learning activities in terms of objectives, time or learning support.

Comment:

• Informal learning may be unintentional from the learner’s perspective;
• its outcomes may be validated and certified;
• informal learning is also referred to as experiential or incidental/random learning;
• this term is close to, but not synonymous with: non-formal learning.

Source: Cedefop (2023) "Terminology of European education and training policy: A selection of key terms"