Why are such activities important in the business context?
There are several benefits of informal learning activities in the workplace which makes it very significant in this context. A very common perk that I have come across consistently in the readings this week is that it helps employees solve problems. I especially agreed with the statement that was made in one particular reading which mentioned that an employee should not have to take a training course to be able to solve an unforeseen problem that arises. Instead, they should be able to share ideas and solutions with their colleagues and receive advice and guidance as to the best possible way to solve the problem. Braidio’s CEO, Iain Scholnick shared this sentiment specifically stating that “I want to be able to solve a problem when I need to solve a problem, not do training six months before the problem arises..." (as cited in Hightower, 2018). So, in cases where problems need to be solved within a short timeframe, social learning becomes very useful.
Not only can employees receive assistance to solve problems, but it has been documented that they feel a sense of achievement when they are exposed to different problem-solving strategies (NovoEd, 2021). Other perks of informal learning activities include an increase in productivity, the creation of a sense of belonging and community, and improvements in communication and interpersonal skills among employees. “Research through the years has shown that collaborative learning produces better outcomes than individual or competitive efforts, regardless of cultural, socioeconomic or geographic factors” (NovoEd, 2021). Overall, research and professionals agree that social learning/informal learning in the workplace benefits the workers and organization on a whole making it very important in this context.
I think a wide variety of business goals can be met via informal or social learning in the corporate DE context. For example, goals that are financial in nature or related to soft skills can be best met via this learning approach. Since this type of learning seems to be more fluid and more relaxed than formal L&D programs, then it allows employers and employees to communicate organizational objectives or targets and discuss how they can be achieved. Skill or knowledge gaps can be filled through virtual coaching or mentoring sessions between management and employees. Some goals though, may require an in-person approach as well in order for it to be achieved. For example, hardcore goals that require some sort of hands-on application may require social learning that is done face to face. Apart from this, I think most business goals can be met through social learning.
As always, I anticipate your feedback!
Krista
MDE student
University of Maryland Global Campus
University of Maryland Global Campus | UMGC
References
Hightower, A. (2018). Why social learning may be key to solving workplace problems. SHRM. Retrieved from https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/technology/pages/why-social-learning-may-be-key-to-solving-workplace-problems.aspx
NovoEd. (2021). Benefits of Collaborative Learning: Why You Need Collaboration in an Organization. https://www.novoed.com/resources/blog/why-organizations-need-collaborative-learning/