The Psychology of Educational Settings

       Unlike formal learning, informal learning does not follow a formal curriculum; there is “no planned programme of objectives, content, learning experiences, resources and assessment” (UNESCO, 2018). Since the introduction of mandatory schooling, learning has become synonymous with formal educational settings. This idea has been further reinforced in recent years by the political agendas in countries such as New Zealand that have placed the focus of education on assessment outcomes, which creates the impression that real learning is “legitimised and graded” (Bourke et al., 2018). However, the majority of learning that occurs throughout a lifetime happens outside of a formal setting. Learning is an innate part of who we are as humans. The moment we come into the world we are learning to recognise sounds, facial expressions and touch. The first teacher in a child's life is their parent or guardian; it is through their social interactions with these first teachers ...

       Formal learning can be defined as an education that is intentionally designed, it usually takes place in a specific place, such as a school or college, led by ‘experts' and follows a structured plan; such as a curriculum, and is assessed and certified (Eaton, 2010). When most people think of learning, this would no doubt be what would come to mind. However, as the philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti said, “the whole of life, from the moment you are born to the moment you die, is a process of learning” (Krishnamurti, 2022). For most, formal learning is a small part of the overall life-long learning journey.              It is often presumed that formal education is a western construct that emerged as a result of industrialisation in the nineteenth century. Whilst formal education prior to industrial revolution was scarce (Carl, 2009), there is ethnographic evidence that shows it can be dated as far back as 5000 years to hunte...