So, what are the different types of education? Well, we have three main types of education. Formal, informal, and non-formal. Let us see the different types of education and what they mean. After reading the following article, you will have a better idea of what each type means. There are different types of education, and they all have their benefits and drawbacks. It is important to learn the difference between them and what they mean for you.
Informal
When we compare informal and formal education, we see that informal is more flexible and less structured, and is not based on a rigid curriculum. Informal education involves learning from conversations with others and from their surroundings, but it also does not have a set curriculum. The primary difference between the two forms of education lies in the focus on the learner. Although both types of education are beneficial for the development of skills, informal is less structured.
Informal education, by contrast, is a lifelong learning process that happens outside of a structured classroom setting. It is free and takes place at any pace. The benefits of informal learning are that it allows students to gain a hands-on experience while formal education focuses on theories. The two forms are not mutually exclusive, but they both have their place in education. While informal education can be free, it may not be considered as valid learning.
Non-formal
There are a variety of different kinds of non-formal education. The most common type is home tutoring. In this form, the tutor is not a certified teacher and does not have a set syllabus that must be followed. However, the student does have the option to follow a regular study structure. Non-formal education can be part-time or full-time and can combine practical practices with theory. The benefits of this type of education are numerous.
The emphasis on conversation is central to the informal educational process. Those who are involved in informal education are not aiming to impart specific academic knowledge, but rather to develop the qualities of a democratic society. This type of education is often conducted by volunteers or community-based organizations, such as clubs and mutual aid groups. It is important to note that informal educators tend to see education as an ongoing process, and do not have a fixed schedule or predetermined learning objectives.
Formal
In the realm of education, formal and informal are both a good starting point. While formal education tends to involve structured lesson plans, informal learning is based on individual experience and reaction to situations. Informal educators cannot prescribe learning packages or events and do not have a predetermined schedule. Rather, informal educators learn by doing, and are therefore free to choose any type of setting and subject matter that fits their interests and timeframe.
In formal education, the learning process is classroom-based, and the teacher’s presence is essential. Curriculum is predetermined and subject-oriented, and attendance is mandatory. Different levels of education are available, and a previous level must be successfully completed in order to move on to the next level. This method can be time consuming, and some students may not be ready to sit for exams. And there are numerous drawbacks to this method of learning.
