10 minutes estimated reading time.

Key takeaways:

• Formal learning is structured and credentialed, while informal learning is self-directed and flexible.
• Each style has strengths and limitations depending on your personal and professional goals.
• Combining both approaches leads to better outcomes and continuous growth.
• Recognising when to use each learning style improves motivation and retention.
• Online platforms, workplaces, and communities now blend both styles to support lifelong learning.

Introduction

Learning doesn’t stop when you leave school. Whether you’re upskilling for work, diving into a new interest, or adapting to change, how you learn matters just as much as what you learn.

But with so many ways to access education today, the question is: formal vs informal learning—what works best for you?

Let’s explore the differences, benefits, and drawbacks of each approach, and how blending the two can offer the best results.

What is Formal Learning?

Formal learning follows a structured format. Think schools, universities, diplomas, and workplace training programs.

Features:

• Curriculum-based
• Delivered by qualified educators or trainers
• Leads to certification or qualifications
• Often regulated by government or industry bodies

Examples:

• TAFE diplomas
• University degrees
• Online accredited courses (e.g. National Training)
• Workplace induction programs

Benefits:

• Recognised qualifications that support career growth
• Measurable progress and assessment
• Access to expert instruction and academic support
• Better alignment with professional standards and compliance

Drawbacks:

• Higher cost and longer time commitment
• Less flexibility around schedule and content
• Can be overly rigid or outdated in some fields

What is Informal Learning?

Informal learning happens outside of structured settings. It’s driven by curiosity and real-life needs.

Features:

• Self-directed
• Flexible and often spontaneous
• Doesn’t lead to a formal qualification
• Focuses on immediate, practical knowledge

Examples:

• Watching YouTube tutorials
• Reading blogs or books
• Asking colleagues for tips
• Trial and error in real situations
• Listening to podcasts or joining online communities

Benefits:

• Highly flexible and accessible
• Immediate application to real tasks
• Encourages independence and curiosity
• Supports ongoing, lifelong learning

Drawbacks:

• No formal recognition
• Quality and accuracy can vary
• Hard to track or measure outcomes
• May lack depth or structure for complex topics

Formal vs Informal Learning: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect	Formal Learning	Informal Learning
Structure	Highly structured and planned	Flexible and spontaneous
Recognition	Leads to a certificate or qualification	No official credentials
Delivery	Instructor-led	Self-directed or peer-supported
Pace	Follows a set timeline	Learn at your own pace
Cost	Often expensive	Usually free or low-cost
Flexibility	Limited	High
Use Case	Career advancement, compliance	Upskilling, hobbies, quick learning
Examples	Diplomas, university courses, certifications	YouTube, blogs, workplace experience

When to Choose Formal Learning

Formal learning is ideal when:

• You need a recognised qualification for career advancement.
• You want deep, foundational knowledge.
• You’re preparing for a regulated industry (e.g. finance, healthcare, IT).
• You value structure and accountability.
• Your employer requires certification for compliance or promotion.

When to Choose Informal Learning

Informal learning is the better option when:

• You want to learn something quickly.
• You’re trying to solve a specific problem at work.
• You’re exploring a new topic or hobby before committing.
• You prefer self-paced learning with no deadlines.
• You enjoy experimenting and learning by doing.

The Power of Combining Both

The best learners blend formal and informal methods. This is especially common in workplaces and online platforms.

Real-World Examples:

• Online Diploma + YouTube Tutorials: You’re studying a Project Management Diploma but also watch real-world case studies on YouTube to see how different tools are used.
• Workplace Mentorship + TAFE Course: You’re enrolled in a Certificate IV but also learning on the job with guidance from a senior colleague.
• Podcast + Certification: You listen to leadership podcasts while completing a formal leadership course.

This combination helps you:

• Reinforce formal learning with real-world insights
• Adapt theory to your own work or interests
• Stay motivated by mixing structure with freedom
• Build both hard and soft skills over time

How Employers View Each Learning Type

Employers in Australia increasingly recognise both learning styles.

What they value:

• Formal learning shows you’re committed and capable of structured achievement.
• Informal learning shows initiative, curiosity, and adaptability.

Combining both makes you more employable. You’re not just ticking boxes—you’re applying what you know and continuing to grow.

Where to Access Formal and Informal Learning in Australia

Formal Learning:

• National Training – Online, accredited diplomas
• TAFE – Government-supported vocational education
• RTOs – Registered Training Organisations across all industries
• Universities – Undergraduate and postgraduate degrees

Informal Learning:

• LinkedIn Learning
• YouTube tutorials
• Professional Facebook/Reddit groups
• Podcasts like “The Good Life” or “WorkLife”
• Meetups and webinars

Conclusion

You don’t have to choose just one path. The smartest learners mix formal structure with informal curiosity to stay sharp, relevant, and confident.

Ready to formalise your skills and take your career to the next level?

Explore flexible, nationally recognised diploma courses at National Training—designed for busy Australians who want results.

FAQs

1. Is informal learning enough to get a job?

Informal learning can help you build practical skills and stay current, especially in fast-moving fields like technology, marketing, or design. However, many employers still prefer candidates with formal qualifications when hiring, particularly for roles in regulated industries or where compliance and structured training are required. Informal learning shows initiative, but combining it with a recognised certification gives you a much stronger edge in the Australian job market.

2. Can informal learning be added to a resume?

Yes, and you should include it. Listing relevant informal learning—such as online tutorials, books, podcasts, or personal projects—demonstrates that you’re proactive, self-motivated, and constantly improving. Be specific: mention the platforms used, skills gained, and how you’ve applied them in real scenarios. While informal learning might not replace formal qualifications, it adds real value and shows your commitment to growth.

3. Are online courses considered formal or informal?

Online courses can be either formal or informal, depending on the provider and whether the course leads to accreditation. Courses from Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), universities, or TAFEs that result in a nationally recognised qualification are considered formal learning. Meanwhile, non-accredited courses from platforms like Udemy or YouTube are informal. It’s important to check the course structure, assessment criteria, and certification details to know where it stands.

4. Which learning style is better for changing careers?

When switching careers, formal learning provides the credibility and structured knowledge needed to transition confidently, especially in industries that value qualifications. It helps signal to employers that you’re serious about the move. However, informal learning plays a crucial role too—it allows you to explore the field, gain real-world context, and build supplementary skills before or during your formal studies. Using both approaches together delivers the best outcome.

5. Can I get credit for informal learning?

Yes, many Australian institutions offer Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), which allows you to earn credit toward a formal qualification based on your work experience, informal study, or self-directed learning. This process involves demonstrating your competency through evidence such as work samples, references, or documented learning activities. It’s a great way to fast-track a course and avoid repeating content you already know, saving you both time and money.