Informal curriculum

Definition

Informal curriculum refers to the lessons and knowledge that students gain through experiences outside of the formal classroom setting. This includes social interactions, extracurricular activities, and cultural experiences that contribute to personal and social development. It complements the formal curriculum by helping students develop skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and emotional intelligence, which are crucial for their overall growth.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Informal curriculum plays a significant role in shaping a student's character and social skills by providing opportunities for collaboration and interaction with peers.
2. The informal curriculum can include activities such as clubs, sports, volunteering, and other community involvement that encourage personal responsibility and teamwork.
3. Teachers often play a vital role in facilitating the informal curriculum by guiding discussions and promoting positive social interactions among students.
4. The impact of the informal curriculum can vary widely among different students based on their unique backgrounds and experiences, influencing their learning outcomes.
5. Assessment of informal learning can be challenging because it is not measured through standardized tests or traditional grading systems.

Review Questions

• How does informal curriculum complement the formal curriculum in terms of student development?
  • The informal curriculum complements the formal curriculum by providing students with opportunities to develop essential life skills that are not typically taught in standard academic settings. Through social interactions, extracurricular activities, and community involvement, students learn critical thinking, teamwork, and emotional intelligence. These experiences contribute significantly to their personal growth and ability to navigate complex social situations, making them well-rounded individuals ready for future challenges.
• Evaluate the importance of informal curriculum in shaping a student's character and social skills.
  • The informal curriculum is crucial in shaping a student's character and social skills as it offers real-life experiences that enhance learning beyond textbooks. Participation in clubs or sports teaches teamwork, leadership, and conflict resolution. Additionally, engaging with diverse groups through various activities fosters empathy and understanding. By developing these skills outside the formal classroom setting, students become more adaptable and prepared for both personal and professional relationships.
• Synthesize how educators can effectively integrate informal curriculum into their teaching practices to enhance student learning.
  • Educators can effectively integrate the informal curriculum into their teaching practices by creating opportunities for students to engage in experiential learning activities. This includes incorporating project-based learning where students collaborate on real-world issues or encouraging participation in extracurricular activities that align with their interests. Teachers can also foster a classroom environment that values discussions around social issues or current events to encourage critical thinking. By recognizing the significance of informal learning experiences, educators can enhance student engagement and promote a holistic approach to education.

Related terms

hidden curriculum: The implicit lessons and values taught in schools that are not part of the formal curriculum, often related to social norms and expectations.

extracurricular activities:

Activities outside of the standard curriculum that provide additional opportunities for student engagement, skill development, and socialization.

experiential learning: A learning approach that emphasizes learning through experience, allowing students to apply knowledge in real-world settings.