We can categorize types of learning depending on the field (education, psychology, pedagogy, etc.), but here’s a well-rounded overview of the main types of learning people usually talk about:
1. Formal Learning
- Learning that happens in structured, organized environments like schools, universities, and training programs.
- Examples: Classroom lessons, lectures, workshops with a curriculum.
2. Informal Learning
- Learning that happens naturally in everyday life, without a structured plan.
- Examples: Learning to cook from a parent, watching a documentary, learning from peers.
3. Non-Formal Learning
- Learning that’s organized outside of the formal school system, but still structured.
- Examples: Community classes, online courses (outside a degree program), language clubs.
4. Experiential Learning
- Learning by doing — hands-on experience, followed by reflection.
- Examples: Internships, role-playing exercises, outdoor adventure learning.
5. Service-Learning
- Learning through community service tied directly to academic goals.
- Example: Students studying public health work on a vaccination campaign in a low-income neighborhood.
6. Active Learning
- Learning where students are actively involved in the process — not just listening, but discussing, experimenting, solving problems.
- Examples: Group discussions, case studies, interactive simulations.
7. Visual, Auditory, and Kinesthetic Learning (Learning Styles)
- Visual learners prefer images, diagrams.
- Auditory learners prefer lectures and spoken explanations.
- Kinesthetic learners prefer hands-on activities and physical engagement.
(Note: Recent research suggests learning styles are more about preference than actual improvement in learning outcomes, but people still talk about them a lot.)
8. Transformational Learning
- Deep learning that changes how you see yourself and the world — often through critical reflection and new experiences.
- Examples: Studying abroad, volunteering in communities unlike your own, or engaging with challenging ideas.
9. Collaborative Learning
- Learning that happens in groups, where students learn from each other.
- Examples: Group projects, peer teaching, study groups.
10. Self-Directed Learning
- When a person takes full control of their own learning — deciding what, how, and when they will learn.
- Examples: Teaching yourself coding through YouTube, setting personal learning goals.
Bonus: Digital Learning, Online Learning, and Blended Learning
- Digital Learning: Any learning using technology.
- Online Learning: Fully virtual courses.
- Blended Learning: Mix of face-to-face and online learning.
Summary Chart
| Type | Key Feature | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Formal | Structured, official | University degree |
| Informal | Unstructured, everyday | Learning from a friend |
| Non-Formal | Structured, outside formal education | Community class |
| Experiential | Learning by doing | Internship |
| Service-Learning | Learning + service | Community project linked to class |
| Active | Students engage actively | Group discussion |
| Visual/Auditory/Kinesthetic | Learning styles | Preferring videos vs reading |
| Transformational | Deep change in perspective | Study abroad |
| Collaborative | Learning in groups | Group project |
| Self-Directed | Student controls learning | Self-study coding |
Recommended Sources
| Type of Learning | Good Sources |
|---|---|
| Formal, Informal, Non-formal | – Coombs, P. H., & Ahmed, M. (1974). Attacking Rural Poverty: How Nonformal Education Can Help. World Bank. – Colley, H., Hodkinson, P., & Malcolm, J. (2003). Informality and formality in learning. Learning and Skills Research Centre. |
| Experiential Learning | – Kolb, D. A. (1984). Experiential Learning: Experience as the Source of Learning and Development. |
| Service-Learning | – Eyler, J., & Giles, D. E. (1999). Where’s the Learning in Service-Learning?. Jossey-Bass. |
| Active Learning | – Bonwell, C. C., & Eison, J. A. (1991). Active Learning: Creating Excitement in the Classroom. ASHE-ERIC Higher Education Report. |
| Learning Styles (VAK) | – Fleming, N. D., & Mills, C. (1992). Not Another Inventory, Rather a Catalyst for Reflection. To Improve the Academy. (Note: This one is controversial now, but it’s the historical origin of VAK.) |
| Transformational Learning | – Mezirow, J. (1991). Transformative Dimensions of Adult Learning. Jossey-Bass. |
| Collaborative Learning | – Bruffee, K. A. (1999). Collaborative Learning: Higher Education, Interdependence, and the Authority of Knowledge. |
| Self-Directed Learning | – Knowles, M. S. (1975). Self-Directed Learning: A Guide for Learners and Teachers. Association Press. |
