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# 2.2 Informal learning

Workplaces are useful informal routes to learning. You can share ideas and experiences and find shortcuts to what is expected of you, as well as the more formal work-based learning and training programmes that teach you what management wants you to know and do.

You could find further opportunities for learning in this way by:

- joining different social groups or community organisations
- trying out new roles or activities within organisations to which you currently belong – for example, becoming treasurer of a club you belong to or offering to stand in for one of the leaders at your local playgroup when they are on holiday.

In informal learning environments you will come across a wider range of thoughts, feelings and behaviours – which you can observe, ‘try on for size’ or discuss. You can open your mind to challenging your stereotypes and opinions – and those of others – and learn to value the debate and discussion that arises as a result. You can sharpen your communication skills while also acquiring new knowledge and information about the topic under discussion.

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